Free CCMA Pharmacology and Medications Questions and Answers 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the correct angle of insertion for an intramuscular (IM) injection?
- 15 degrees
- 45 degrees
- 90 degrees (Correct answer)
- 120 degrees
Correct answer: 90 degrees
An intramuscular injection is intended to deliver medication deep into the muscle tissue for absorption. A 90-degree angle ensures the needle penetrates the subcutaneous tissue and reaches the muscle layer effectively.
Question 2: The medical abbreviation 'PO' stands for which of the following routes of administration?
- Intravenously
- By mouth (Correct answer)
- As needed
- Sublingually
Correct answer: By mouth
PO is the abbreviation for the Latin term 'per os,' which means 'by mouth.' This is one of the most common routes for medication administration. It is important for medical assistants to be fluent in common medical abbreviations.
Question 3: Which of the 'Seven Rights' of medication administration is the first and most important step before giving any medication?
- Right Dose
- Right Time
- Right Documentation
- Right Patient (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Right Patient
While all seven rights are critical for patient safety, verifying you have the 'Right Patient' is the foundational first step. This is typically done by checking at least two patient identifiers, such as name and date of birth.
Question 4: A provider orders 500 mg of amoxicillin. The available stock is 250 mg per 5 mL. How many milliliters should the medical assistant administer?
- 2.5 mL
- 5 mL
- 10 mL (Correct answer)
- 15 mL
Correct answer: 10 mL
To solve this, use the formula: (Dose Ordered / Dose on Hand) x Quantity. In this case, (500 mg / 250 mg) x 5 mL = 2 x 5 mL = 10 mL. The medical assistant should administer 10 mL.
Question 5: Which of the following routes of administration provides the fastest absorption of a medication?
- Intramuscular (IM)
- Oral (PO)
- Subcutaneous (SubQ)
- Intravenous (IV) (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Intravenous (IV)
The intravenous (IV) route delivers medication directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the need for absorption through tissues or the digestive system. This results in the most rapid onset of action compared to other routes.
Question 6: Ibuprofen and Naproxen belong to which class of drugs?
- Opioids
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) (Correct answer)
- Antibiotics
- Antihistamines
Correct answer: Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and Naproxen (Aleve) are common over-the-counter medications used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. They belong to the class of drugs known as Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).
Free CCMA Pharmacology and Medications Questions and Answers 1
What is the correct angle of insertion for an intramuscular (IM) injection?