NCSBN - National Council of State Boards of Nursing Pharmacological Therapies Questions and Answers

Question 1

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client newly prescribed warfarin. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?

Accepted Answer

"I will start taking ibuprofen for my occasional headaches."

Answer

"I will use an electric razor for shaving instead of a disposable razor."

Answer

"I must report any signs of dark, tarry stools to my provider."

Answer

"I understand I will need to have my blood tested regularly."

Question 2

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client receiving intravenous furosemide for acute heart failure. Which laboratory value requires the most immediate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Serum potassium 2.8 mEq/L

Answer

Serum sodium 137 mEq/L

Answer

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 25 mg/dL

Answer

Serum creatinine 1.2 mg/dL

Question 3

A nurse assesses a client receiving morphine via a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump. The client's respiratory rate is 7 breaths/min and they are difficult to arouse. After stopping the PCA infusion, what is the nurse's next priority action?

Accepted Answer

Administer naloxone as prescribed by standing order.

Answer

Check the client's oxygen saturation level.

Answer

Notify the healthcare provider of the findings.

Answer

Document the client's status in the electronic health record.

Question 4

A nurse is preparing to administer an intravenous infusion of vancomycin. To prevent the occurrence of vancomycin flushing syndrome ("Red Man Syndrome"), which nursing action is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Infuse the medication over at least 60 minutes.

Answer

Administer a rapid IV bolus over 5 minutes.

Answer

Cover the client with a warming blanket during the infusion.

Answer

Pre-medicate the client with an antiemetic.

Question 5

A client who was prescribed lisinopril two weeks ago reports developing a persistent, nonproductive cough. Which of the following is the nurse's best response?

Accepted Answer

"This is an expected and common side effect. You should notify your provider to discuss potential medication changes."

Answer

"You are likely developing a respiratory infection and should see your provider for an antibiotic."

Answer

"Stop taking the medication immediately as this indicates a severe allergic reaction."

Answer

"Increase your fluid intake to help thin the secretions causing the cough."

Question 6

A nurse is providing education to a 22-year-old client newly prescribed fluoxetine, a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). Which instruction is most critical for the nurse to include?

Accepted Answer

"It is crucial to immediately report any increase in suicidal thoughts or behaviors."

Answer

"You must avoid eating aged cheese and cured meats while on this medication."

Answer

"The medication should provide full relief from your symptoms within one week."

Answer

"You can stop taking the medication as soon as you start to feel better."