LPN - Certified Practical Nurse Pharmacological Therapies Questions and Answers

Question 1

A patient is prescribed warfarin, an oral anticoagulant. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates a need for further teaching by the LPN?

Accepted Answer

"I will start taking ibuprofen for my occasional headaches."

Answer

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin. This statement indicates a lack of understanding of potential drug interactions and requires further education to prevent a serious adverse event. The other options are correct and demonstrate proper understanding of warfarin therapy.

Question 2

An LPN is preparing to administer a subcutaneous injection of heparin. Which of the following actions is appropriate for this procedure?

Accepted Answer

Administering the injection in the abdomen, at least 2 inches away from the umbilicus.

Answer

The abdomen is the preferred site for subcutaneous heparin injections because it has a consistent layer of subcutaneous fat, allowing for predictable absorption. Injecting at least 2 inches from the umbilicus avoids the umbilical veins and vascular areas. Aspirating and massaging the site are not recommended as they can cause hematoma formation.

Question 3

A patient with type 2 diabetes is prescribed metformin. What is the primary mechanism of action for this medication?

Accepted Answer

It increases the cellular uptake and use of glucose.

Answer

Metformin, a biguanide, primarily works by decreasing hepatic glucose production and increasing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, which leads to increased cellular uptake and utilization of glucose. It does not directly stimulate the pancreas to release insulin.

Question 4

An LPN is caring for a client who is receiving a dose of furosemide (Lasix). The LPN should monitor the client for which of the following potential adverse effects?

Accepted Answer

Hypokalemia

Answer

Furosemide is a loop diuretic that causes the kidneys to excrete more water, sodium, and potassium. A significant and common adverse effect is hypokalemia (low potassium), which can lead to muscle weakness and cardiac dysrhythmias. Therefore, monitoring potassium levels is crucial.

Question 5

When administering an oral medication to an elderly patient with dysphagia, which of the following is the most important initial action for the LPN to take?

Accepted Answer

Check the facility's policy and consult with the pharmacist about crushing the medication.

Answer

Patient safety is the priority. Not all medications can be crushed (e.g., enteric-coated or sustained-release tablets). The LPN must first verify if the medication can be safely altered. Consulting facility policy and the pharmacist is the correct and safest initial action before modifying the form of any medication.

(LPN) Certified Practical Nurse Practice Test

(LPN) Certified Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN - Certified Practical Nurse Pharmacological Therapies Questions and Answers