Pharmacology & Medication Administration Flashcards

A patient is prescribed NPH insulin at 8:00 AM. When should the LPN anticipate the PEAK hypoglycemic effect?

Answer: 4–12 hours after injection

NPH (intermediate-acting) insulin peaks approximately 4–12 hours after administration, which is when hypoglycemia is most likely.

Which electrolyte imbalance should the LPN monitor for most closely in a patient receiving gentamicin (an aminoglycoside antibiotic)?

Answer: Hypomagnesemia

Aminoglycosides cause nephrotoxicity that can lead to magnesium wasting, making hypomagnesemia a key monitoring concern.

A patient is prescribed levothyroxine 100 mcg PO daily. The LPN should instruct the patient to take this medication:

Answer: On an empty stomach 30–60 minutes before breakfast

Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach 30–60 minutes before breakfast to maximize absorption.

The LPN is about to administer a medication and realizes the medication label has been partially torn. The correct action is to:

Answer: Return the medication to the pharmacy and obtain a new supply

A damaged or unreadable label means the medication should be returned to the pharmacy and a new, properly labeled supply obtained.

A patient taking spironolactone should be instructed to AVOID which dietary item?

Answer: Foods high in potassium

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic; adding extra dietary potassium increases the risk of life-threatening hyperkalemia.

Which medication requires the LPN to assess for a 'black, tarry stool' as a serious adverse effect?

Answer: Naproxen (NSAID)

NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandins protecting the GI mucosa, increasing risk of GI bleeding evidenced by black, tarry stools (melena).

When drawing up two insulins (regular and NPH) in the same syringe, which insulin should the LPN draw up FIRST?

Answer: Regular (clear) insulin first

The mnemonic 'clear before cloudy' means regular (clear) insulin is drawn first to prevent contaminating the regular insulin vial with NPH.