ISMP High-Alert Medications

Question 1

Which organization publishes the list of high-alert medications used most widely in US healthcare settings?

Accepted Answer

ISMP

Answer

ISMP publishes and regularly updates the list of high-alert medications that bear a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error.

Question 2

Which of the following is considered a high-alert medication by ISMP?

Accepted Answer

Insulin

Answer

Insulin is on the ISMP high-alert medication list because errors involving it can cause serious hypoglycemia or death.

Question 3

What is a recommended strategy for reducing errors with high-alert medications?

Accepted Answer

Require independent double-checks

Answer

ISMP recommends independent double-checks as a key safeguard for high-alert medications to catch errors before they reach patients.

Question 4

Concentrated electrolytes such as potassium chloride injection are on the ISMP high-alert list primarily because they can cause:

Accepted Answer

Cardiac arrest if given undiluted IV push

Answer

Undiluted IV potassium chloride can cause fatal cardiac arrest, which is why ISMP recommends removing concentrated KCl from floor stock.

Question 5

According to ISMP, which labeling practice helps distinguish high-alert medications from routine drugs?

Accepted Answer

Auxiliary warning labels or stickers

Answer

ISMP recommends using auxiliary warning labels and stickers on high-alert medications to prompt extra care during preparation and administration.

ISMP - Institute for Safe Medication Practices Practice Test

ISMP - Institute for Safe Medication Practices Practice Test

ISMP High-Alert Medications