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

Crush all tablets and mix with water

Answer

Ask the patient to take a large sip of water first

Answer

Divide the tablet and give half at a time

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

At a rate slower than 10 mEq/hr

Answer

In a saline-based IV solution

Answer

Through a peripheral IV line

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

Hypertension and tachycardia

Answer

Pupil dilation (mydriasis)

Answer

Agitation and hyperreflexia

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

Before meals

Answer

By mouth only

Answer

Immediately (stat)

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

Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin)

Answer

Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin)

Answer

Sulfonamides (e.g., trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole)

Question 6

When applying a nitroglycerin transdermal patch, the practical nurse should:

Accepted Answer

Remove the old patch and rotate to a new hairless skin site

Answer

Apply it to the same site each day to maintain consistent absorption

Answer

Apply over the previous patch site without removing it

Answer

Place it on the chest only for cardiac effect

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