Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies

Question 1

What is the purpose of pharmacokinetics in nursing practice?

Accepted Answer

To understand how the drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted

Answer

Pharmacokinetics describes the movement of drugs within the body, encompassing the processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME). Understanding these processes allows nurses to predict how a drug will behave in a patient, optimize dosing, minimize adverse effects, and ensure therapeutic efficacy. It is fundamental to safe and effective medication administration.

Question 2

Which of the following is a common side effect of opioid medications?

Accepted Answer

Constipation and sedation

Answer

Opioid medications work by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. Common side effects include constipation due to decreased gut motility and sedation due to central nervous system depression. Nurses must monitor for these effects and implement interventions, such as stool softeners or fall precautions, to ensure patient comfort and safety.

Question 3

What is the proper method for administering an intramuscular (IM) injection?

Accepted Answer

Injecting at a 90-degree angle into the muscle

Answer

Intramuscular (IM) injections are administered at a 90-degree angle to ensure the medication reaches the deep muscle tissue, where it can be absorbed effectively. This angle is crucial for proper drug delivery and to minimize the risk of injecting into subcutaneous tissue or hitting nerves or blood vessels. The choice of needle length also depends on the patient's muscle mass and the injection site.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of parenteral medication administration?

Accepted Answer

Intravenous (IV) injection

Answer

Parenteral medication administration refers to routes that bypass the gastrointestinal tract, meaning the medication is delivered directly into the body tissues or bloodstream. Intravenous (IV) injection is a prime example, as the medication is injected directly into a vein, providing rapid systemic effects. Oral, topical, and inhalation routes are not considered parenteral.

Question 5

Which of the following is a common reason for administering a medication via the subcutaneous route?

Accepted Answer

For medications that need to be absorbed slowly over time

Answer

The subcutaneous route is chosen for medications that require slow, sustained absorption into the bloodstream. The subcutaneous tissue has a rich blood supply but less than muscle, allowing for a gradual release of the drug. This route is commonly used for medications like insulin, heparin, and some vaccines, providing a prolonged therapeutic effect.

NCLEX Practice Test

NCLEX Practice Test

Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies