Paramedics Exam Pharmacology and Medication Administration 5

Question 1

A patient in status epilepticus unresponsive to benzodiazepines requires phenytoin. What is the primary concern during IV administration?

Accepted Answer

Rapid infusion can cause severe hypotension and cardiac dysrhythmias

Answer

Phenytoin must be administered slowly (≤50 mg/min IV) because rapid infusion causes hypotension and cardiac dysrhythmias.

Question 2

When establishing medication orders via medical direction, which type of order allows paramedics to administer medications without contacting a physician for each individual patient?

Accepted Answer

Off-line standing orders (protocols)

Answer

Off-line standing orders (protocols) are pre-approved by medical directors, allowing paramedics to act without real-time physician contact.

Question 3

Which electrolyte imbalance most increases the risk of digoxin toxicity?

Accepted Answer

Hypokalemia

Answer

Hypokalemia increases digoxin toxicity by enhancing digoxin's binding to Na/K-ATPase and increasing cellular uptake.

Question 4

A paramedic accidentally administers 10 times the ordered dose of insulin. The most immediate life-threatening complication is:

Accepted Answer

Severe hypoglycemia

Answer

Insulin overdose causes severe hypoglycemia by driving glucose into cells, depriving the brain of its primary fuel source.

Question 5

What is the mechanism of action of magnesium sulfate in the treatment of torsades de pointes?

Accepted Answer

Blocks calcium channels and stabilizes cardiac membranes by inhibiting sodium influx

Answer

Magnesium stabilizes cardiac membranes and blocks calcium, interrupting the triggered activity responsible for torsades de pointes.

Paramedics Exam Practice Test

Paramedics Exam Practice Test

Paramedics Exam Pharmacology and Medication Administration 5