Pharmacology Principles & Drug Classifications Flashcards

An 'agonist' drug is one that:

Answer: Binds to a receptor and produces a response

An agonist binds to and activates a receptor, mimicking the effect of a naturally occurring substance.

Which type of medication helps relax and open airways in patients with asthma?

Answer: Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators such as albuterol relax the smooth muscles of the airways, making breathing easier during asthma attacks.

The 'first-pass effect' refers to:

Answer: Metabolism of a drug in the liver before it reaches systemic circulation

After oral absorption, drugs pass through the liver via the portal circulation, where some are extensively metabolized before reaching systemic circulation.

A patient is prescribed a diuretic. The medication aide should expect the patient to:

Answer: Have increased urine output

Diuretics increase urine production, helping the body eliminate excess fluid and sodium.

Which of the following describes 'polypharmacy' in elderly patients?

Answer: Taking multiple medications, increasing risk of interactions

Polypharmacy refers to the concurrent use of multiple medications, which significantly raises the risk of drug interactions and adverse effects, especially in the elderly.

Anticholinergic medications block the effects of:

Answer: Acetylcholine

Anticholinergic drugs block acetylcholine receptors, which can cause dry mouth, urinary retention, and confusion as side effects.

When documenting medication administration, the medication aide should record:

Answer: The medication given, dose, route, time, and resident response

Complete and accurate documentation must include the drug name, dose, route, time of administration, and any resident response or refusal.