NCAS Pharmacology and Medication Administration

Question 1

A nurse is preparing to administer digoxin to a patient. What is the most important assessment to perform before administration?

Accepted Answer

Apical pulse for one full minute

Answer

Digoxin is withheld and the provider notified if the apical pulse is below 60 bpm, as the medication slows cardiac conduction.

Question 2

Which of the following medications requires routine monitoring of serum potassium levels due to its effect on electrolyte balance?

Accepted Answer

Furosemide

Answer

Furosemide is a loop diuretic that promotes urinary potassium excretion, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.

Question 3

A patient is receiving IV heparin therapy. Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor to evaluate therapeutic effect?

Accepted Answer

aPTT

Answer

The aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time) monitors the intrinsic coagulation pathway and reflects heparin's anticoagulant effect.

Question 4

A nurse is administering metformin to a newly admitted patient. Which condition is an absolute contraindication for this medication?

Accepted Answer

Renal impairment

Answer

Metformin is contraindicated in significant renal impairment because decreased clearance leads to drug accumulation and risk of lactic acidosis.

Question 5

Which route of medication administration provides the fastest onset of drug action?

Accepted Answer

Intravenous

Answer

Intravenous administration delivers medication directly into systemic circulation, bypassing all absorption barriers for immediate effect.

NCAS - Nursing Community Assessment Service Practice Test