FREE RCIS Cardiovascular Pharmacology Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following is the specific reversal agent for unfractionated heparin?

Accepted Answer

Protamine Sulfate

Answer

Protamine sulfate is a cationic protein that binds with anionic heparin to form a stable, inactive complex, thereby neutralizing its anticoagulant effect. It is the standard reversal agent for unfractionated heparin and is also used for low-molecular-weight heparin.

Question 2

Clopidogrel (Plavix) exerts its antiplatelet effect by blocking which receptor on the platelet surface?

Accepted Answer

P2Y12 ADP

Answer

Clopidogrel is a thienopyridine that irreversibly inhibits the P2Y12 adenosine diphosphate (ADP) receptor on platelets. This action prevents ADP-mediated platelet activation and aggregation, a key step in thrombus formation.

Question 3

When administering adenosine for fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurement, the primary therapeutic effect is:

Accepted Answer

Maximal coronary vasodilation

Answer

Adenosine is a potent, short-acting vasodilator that causes maximal hyperemia (increased blood flow) in the coronary arteries. This state is essential for accurately measuring FFR, which assesses the physiological significance of a coronary stenosis.

Question 4

A patient in cardiogenic shock is started on a norepinephrine (Levophed) infusion. The primary desired effect of this medication is:

Accepted Answer

Increased systemic vascular resistance via alpha-1 agonism

Answer

Norepinephrine is a potent alpha-1 adrenergic agonist, which causes significant peripheral vasoconstriction and increases systemic vascular resistance (SVR). This action raises blood pressure, which is critical in managing hypotensive states like cardiogenic shock.

Question 5

Which of the following is a primary contraindication for administering a beta-blocker, such as metoprolol, to a patient with an acute myocardial infarction?

Accepted Answer

Acute heart failure with pulmonary edema

Answer

Beta-blockers have negative inotropic (reduce contractility) and chronotropic (reduce heart rate) effects. In a patient with acute decompensated heart failure and pulmonary edema, these effects can worsen cardiac output and exacerbate the condition.

RCIS - Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist Practice Test

RCIS - Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist Practice Test

FREE RCIS Cardiovascular Pharmacology Questions and Answers