Medicines Management and Pharmacology Flashcards
6 cards from real NMC CBT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Medicines Management and Pharmacology flashcards as text
A patient is on gentamicin. Which two organ systems must be monitored for toxicity?
Answer: Renal and auditory (nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity)
Aminoglycosides carry significant risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Monitor renal function and drug levels regularly.
What is the mechanism of action of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen?
Answer: Inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis
NSAIDs inhibit COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, reducing prostaglandin production involved in inflammation, pain, and fever.
What is the most serious adverse effect of metformin?
Answer: Lactic acidosis
Lactic acidosis is rare but potentially fatal. More likely with renal/liver impairment, heart failure, or tissue hypoxia.
A patient develops rigors, hypotension, and widespread rash minutes after starting an IV antibiotic. What is the likely cause and treatment?
Answer: Anaphylaxis — IM adrenaline 500 mcg (1:1000)
Rapid onset with hypotension, rash, and rigors during IV drug administration suggests anaphylaxis. Give IM adrenaline immediately.
Which medication requires regular serum potassium monitoring?
Answer: Furosemide
Furosemide is a loop diuretic causing significant potassium loss. Hypokalaemia can cause dangerous cardiac arrhythmias.
What is the maximum single and daily dose of paracetamol for adults over 50 kg?
Answer: 1 g single, 4 g daily
Maximum single dose: 1 g. Maximum daily: 4 g (in divided doses, at least 4 hours apart).