MS Pharmacology & Drug Administration 5

Question 1

A patient has a known sulfa drug allergy. Which common antibiotic should be avoided based on this allergy?

Accepted Answer

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX)

Answer

TMP-SMX (Bactrim) contains sulfamethoxazole, a sulfonamide, which is contraindicated in patients with sulfa allergies.

Question 2

Which term describes a decreased drug effect over time requiring higher doses to achieve the same result?

Accepted Answer

Tolerance

Answer

Drug tolerance occurs when the body adapts to a medication, reducing its effect over time and requiring dose increases.

Question 3

When documenting discharge medications, a scribe notices a prescription for 'atorvastatin 40 mg PO QHS.' What drug class is atorvastatin?

Accepted Answer

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin)

Answer

Atorvastatin is a statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) used to lower LDL cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk.

Question 4

A physician notes 'insulin glargine 20 units SQ QHS.' How does glargine differ from regular insulin?

Accepted Answer

It is long-acting with no peak effect

Answer

Glargine (Lantus) is a long-acting basal insulin with a flat, peakless profile lasting approximately 24 hours.

Question 5

Which documentation practice is MOST important when scribing a verbal medication order from a physician?

Accepted Answer

Read back the order to confirm accuracy

Answer

Read-back verification of verbal orders prevents transcription errors and is a Joint Commission safety requirement.

(MS) Medical Scribe Certification Practice Test