NPS NPS Pharmacology and Medications 2

Question 1

A 28-week neonate receives vancomycin for suspected sepsis. Which pharmacokinetic parameter is most commonly monitored to guide dosing?

Accepted Answer

AUC/MIC ratio

Answer

AUC/MIC-guided vancomycin monitoring (targeting AUC 400–600) is now preferred over trough-only monitoring in neonates and pediatric patients.

Question 2

Dexamethasone is used postnatally in premature neonates primarily to treat which condition?

Accepted Answer

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Answer

Low-dose postnatal dexamethasone is used to facilitate extubation and manage bronchopulmonary dysplasia in ventilator-dependent preterm neonates.

Question 3

What is the maximum safe concentration of dextrose that should be administered via a peripheral IV in a neonate?

Accepted Answer

D12.5W (12.5%)

Answer

Dextrose concentrations up to 12.5% are considered safe for peripheral IV administration in neonates to avoid venous irritation and extravasation injury.

Question 4

A pediatric patient in status asthmaticus fails initial bronchodilator therapy. Which IV medication is administered next?

Accepted Answer

Magnesium sulfate

Answer

IV magnesium sulfate is recommended as second-line therapy for pediatric status asthmaticus not responding to initial bronchodilators, due to its bronchodilatory effect.

Question 5

Which medication is used to treat neonatal seizures as first-line therapy in the US?

Accepted Answer

Phenobarbital

Answer

Phenobarbital at 20 mg/kg IV is the established first-line anticonvulsant for neonatal seizures in most US centers.

NPS - Neonatal Pediatric Specialist Practice Test

NPS - Neonatal Pediatric Specialist Practice Test

NPS NPS Pharmacology and Medications 2