MACE Pharmaceutical Knowledge 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which class of medications works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors to slow heart rate and lower blood pressure?
- Beta-blockers (Correct answer)
- ACE inhibitors
- Calcium channel blockers
- Diuretics
Correct answer: Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers such as metoprolol and atenolol block beta receptors, reducing heart rate and blood pressure.
Question 2: A resident is prescribed a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). How many seconds should the resident hold their breath after inhaling the medication?
- 10 seconds (Correct answer)
- 2 seconds
- 30 seconds
- Until they feel dizzy
Correct answer: 10 seconds
After inhaling the medication from an MDI, the resident should hold their breath for approximately 10 seconds to allow the medication to deposit in the airways.
Question 3: Which of the following is the MOST important safety check before administering any medication?
- Verify the Six Rights: right resident, drug, dose, route, time, and documentation (Correct answer)
- Check that the medication looks the same as usual
- Confirm the medication is not expired
- Make sure the resident is awake and sitting upright
Correct answer: Verify the Six Rights: right resident, drug, dose, route, time, and documentation
The Six Rights of medication administration are the cornerstone safety standard that must be verified before every dose.
Question 4: What does 'PRN' mean on a medication administration record (MAR)?
- As needed (Correct answer)
- Before meals
- Every night
- By mouth only
Correct answer: As needed
PRN (pro re nata) means the medication is given as needed based on the resident's condition or complaint.
Question 5: A resident is prescribed digoxin. What assessment should be completed BEFORE giving each dose?
- Apical pulse for one full minute (Correct answer)
- Blood pressure in both arms
- Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation
- Temperature and skin turgor
Correct answer: Apical pulse for one full minute
Digoxin can cause bradycardia; the apical pulse must be counted for one full minute, and the dose held if it is below 60 bpm per facility policy.
Question 6: Which storage condition is typically required for insulin?
- Refrigerated at 36–46°F until opened, then room temperature for up to 28–30 days (Correct answer)
- Always stored at room temperature
- Frozen until the day of use
- Stored in a warm, dry place away from light
Correct answer: Refrigerated at 36–46°F until opened, then room temperature for up to 28–30 days
Unopened insulin should be refrigerated; once opened, most vials and pens can be kept at room temperature for 28–30 days depending on the product.
Question 7: A resident refuses a scheduled medication. What is the correct action for the medication aide?
- Respect the refusal, document it on the MAR, and notify the nurse (Correct answer)
- Crush the medication and put it in food without telling the resident
- Try multiple times until the resident accepts
- Administer the medication anyway to maintain the treatment plan
Correct answer: Respect the refusal, document it on the MAR, and notify the nurse
Residents have the right to refuse medication; the aide must document the refusal and report it to the nurse for follow-up.
MACE Pharmaceutical Knowledge 4
Which class of medications works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors to slow heart rate and lower blood pressure?