MACE Pharmacology 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which medication classification is used to relieve pain without causing loss of consciousness?
- Anticoagulants
- Analgesics (Correct answer)
- Antihypertensives
- Antiemetics
Correct answer: Analgesics
Analgesics are a class of drugs specifically used to relieve pain while the patient remains conscious.
Question 2: A resident is taking an NSAID for arthritis. Which side effect should the CNA monitor for and report?
- Dry mouth
- Black or tarry stools (Correct answer)
- Increased energy
- Hair thinning
Correct answer: Black or tarry stools
Black or tarry stools indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, a serious complication of NSAID use that requires immediate reporting.
Question 3: What does 'prn' mean on a medication administration record?
- Give before meals
- Give as needed (Correct answer)
- Give at bedtime
- Give with food
Correct answer: Give as needed
'PRN' is a Latin abbreviation for 'pro re nata,' meaning the medication should be given only when the resident needs it.
Question 4: A resident's medication is labeled 'otic.' This medication is intended for use in the:
- Eyes
- Ears (Correct answer)
- Nose
- Mouth
Correct answer: Ears
Otic preparations are specifically formulated for administration into the ear canal.
Question 5: Which action by a CNA is APPROPRIATE when assisting with medications in a state that permits it?
- Deciding to omit a medication because the resident seems fine
- Observing the resident swallow the medication (Correct answer)
- Removing medications from their original packaging for convenience
- Sharing one resident's medication with another resident
Correct answer: Observing the resident swallow the medication
The CNA may observe and confirm that the resident has swallowed the medication and then document accordingly.
Question 6: A resident taking an antihypertensive medication stands up quickly and feels dizzy. This is MOST likely:
- A sign of infection
- Orthostatic hypotension (Correct answer)
- A seizure aura
- An allergic reaction
Correct answer: Orthostatic hypotension
Orthostatic hypotension is a drop in blood pressure upon standing, a common side effect of antihypertensive medications.
Question 7: Which of the following is an example of a topical route of medication administration?
- Swallowing a tablet
- Applying a medicated patch to the skin (Correct answer)
- Inhaling a mist through the mouth
- Placing a tablet under the tongue
Correct answer: Applying a medicated patch to the skin
Topical administration means applying a medication directly to the skin or mucous membranes, such as a transdermal patch.
MACE Pharmacology 3
Which medication classification is used to relieve pain without causing loss of consciousness?