NCAS Pharmacology and Medication Administration 2

Question 1

A nurse is preparing to administer a subcutaneous insulin injection to an adult patient with average body weight. Which needle length is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

5/8 inch or shorter

Answer

Short needles (5/8 inch or shorter) are used for subcutaneous insulin injections to deposit medication into the subcutaneous fat layer without reaching muscle.

Question 2

A patient started on an ACE inhibitor two weeks ago calls the clinic complaining of a bothersome symptom. Which adverse effect is most characteristic of this drug class?

Accepted Answer

Persistent dry cough

Answer

ACE inhibitors cause accumulation of bradykinin in the lungs, resulting in a persistent dry cough that often requires switching to an ARB.

Question 3

A patient receiving IV morphine develops a respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute and is difficult to arouse. Which medication should the nurse prepare to administer?

Accepted Answer

Naloxone

Answer

Naloxone is an opioid receptor antagonist that rapidly reverses opioid-induced respiratory depression and sedation.

Question 4

What is the primary nursing safety action that must be completed immediately before administering any medication to a patient?

Accepted Answer

Using two patient identifiers to confirm patient identity

Answer

Verifying patient identity using two identifiers (name and date of birth or medical record number) before every medication administration prevents medication errors.

Question 5

A patient is prescribed a transdermal nitroglycerin patch. Which nursing instruction regarding application is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

Apply to a clean, dry, hairless skin area and rotate sites with each dose

Answer

Transdermal patches should be applied to clean, dry, hairless skin on non-bony areas, with site rotation to prevent skin irritation and ensure consistent absorption.

NCAS - Nursing Community Assessment Service Practice Test

NCAS - Nursing Community Assessment Service Practice Test

NCAS Pharmacology and Medication Administration 2