PSB-PN Pharmacology & Medication Administration 2

Question 1

A practical nurse is preparing to administer an oral medication to a patient who is having difficulty swallowing. The FIRST action should be to:

Accepted Answer

Contact the prescribing provider to request an alternative form

Answer

Crushing tablets or altering dosage forms can change absorption and is contraindicated for many medications; the provider must be contacted for a safe alternative form.

Question 2

A patient is receiving IV potassium chloride. The practical nurse knows that IV potassium must NEVER be administered:

Accepted Answer

Undiluted as a direct IV push

Answer

IV potassium given undiluted as a direct push causes fatal cardiac arrhythmias; it must always be diluted and infused slowly.

Question 3

Which of the following is a sign of narcotic (opioid) overdose that the practical nurse should recognize and report immediately?

Accepted Answer

Respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute

Answer

A respiratory rate below 12 breaths per minute (respiratory depression) is the hallmark sign of opioid overdose and requires immediate intervention with naloxone.

Question 4

The nurse is reviewing a medication administration record (MAR). The abbreviation 'PRN' means the medication should be given:

Accepted Answer

As needed, based on patient condition

Answer

PRN (Latin: pro re nata) means 'as needed' — the medication is given based on the patient's specific condition or complaint rather than on a fixed schedule.

Question 5

A patient is allergic to penicillin. The practical nurse should be aware that there is a potential cross-reactivity with which class of antibiotics?

Accepted Answer

Cephalosporins (e.g., cephalexin)

Answer

Penicillins and cephalosporins share a beta-lactam ring structure; patients allergic to penicillin have a small but significant risk of cross-reactivity to cephalosporins.

PSB-PN Exam Practice Test

PSB-PN Exam Practice Test

PSB-PN Pharmacology & Medication Administration 2