Pharmacy Patient Counseling 3

Question 1

A patient newly prescribed warfarin needs counseling on which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Maintain consistent vitamin K intake and report unusual bleeding

Answer

Patients should keep vitamin K intake consistent (not avoid it entirely), monitor for bleeding signs, and avoid medications like NSAIDs that increase bleeding risk without physician guidance.

Question 2

When counseling a patient on a metered-dose inhaler (MDI), which instruction is correct?

Accepted Answer

Shake well, exhale fully, actuate while inhaling slowly, then hold breath for 10 seconds

Answer

Proper MDI technique: shake well, exhale fully, seal lips around mouthpiece (or spacer), actuate and inhale slowly over 3–5 seconds, then hold breath for ~10 seconds to maximize deposition.

Question 3

A patient on bisphosphonate therapy (alendronate) should be counseled to:

Accepted Answer

Take it with a full glass of water and remain upright for 30 minutes after

Answer

Alendronate requires being taken with 8 oz of plain water (not other beverages) on an empty stomach and remaining upright for ≥30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation and ulceration.

Question 4

Health literacy principles recommend using which communication approach with all patients?

Accepted Answer

Plain language, simple terms, and confirmation of understanding

Answer

Plain language, limited key messages, visual aids, and teach-back are cornerstones of health-literate communication, ensuring patients of all literacy levels understand their medications.

Question 5

A patient is starting topical minoxidil for hair loss. Which counseling point is MOST important?

Accepted Answer

Consistent daily application is required; stopping will reverse any gains

Answer

Minoxidil requires consistent twice-daily use for at least 4 months to see results. Discontinuing treatment causes any regrown hair to be lost within a few months.

Pharmacy Practice Test

Pharmacy Practice Test

Pharmacy Patient Counseling 3