RNC-NIC Pharmacology & Therapeutic Management

Question 1

Which medication is commonly used to close a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in neonates?

Accepted Answer

Amoxicillin

Answer

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic commonly used in neonates to treat various bacterial infections. While its primary role is not to close a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), it may be administered in the broader context of neonatal care if there is a co-existing bacterial infection or a prophylactic need. However, it is important to note that specific medications like indomethacin or ibuprofen are typically used for pharmacological closure of a PDA.

Question 2

What is a common side effect of aminoglycoside antibiotics in neonates?

Accepted Answer

Ototoxicity

Answer

Ototoxicity, which involves damage to the auditory or vestibular system leading to hearing loss or balance problems, is a common side effect of aminoglycoside antibiotics in neonates. Neonates are particularly vulnerable due to their immature renal function and varying drug metabolism. Therefore, careful monitoring of drug levels and hearing is essential during treatment with these medications.

Question 3

Why is dosing weight-critical in neonatal pharmacology?

Accepted Answer

To avoid toxicity

Answer

Dosing weight is critical in neonatal pharmacology to avoid toxicity due to neonates' immature organ systems for drug metabolism and excretion. Their unique body composition and physiological differences compared to adults mean that precise, weight-based dosing is essential. This ensures therapeutic drug levels are achieved while minimizing the risk of drug accumulation and severe adverse effects.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of surfactant therapy in preterm infants?

Accepted Answer

Support breathing

Answer

The primary purpose of surfactant therapy in preterm infants is to support breathing by improving lung function. Preterm infants often lack sufficient pulmonary surfactant, which reduces surface tension in the alveoli and prevents their collapse. Administering exogenous surfactant helps to keep the alveoli open, improving lung compliance and gas exchange, thereby alleviating respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).

Question 5

Which vitamin is routinely administered to neonates to prevent bleeding?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin K

Answer

Vitamin K is routinely administered to neonates shortly after birth to prevent Vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB), also known as hemorrhagic disease of the newborn. Neonates have low vitamin K stores at birth and their gut flora, which produces vitamin K, is not yet fully established. This prophylactic dose ensures adequate clotting factor synthesis and significantly reduces the risk of serious bleeding.

(RNC-NIC) Registered Nurse Certified in Neonatal Intensive Care Practice Test

(RNC-NIC) Registered Nurse Certified in Neonatal Intensive Care Practice Test

RNC-NIC Pharmacology & Therapeutic Management