PTCE Patient Counseling 3

Question 1

A patient picking up metformin asks if they can crush the extended-release tablets to make them easier to swallow. The technician should:

Accepted Answer

Refer the patient to the pharmacist because crushing extended-release tablets can be dangerous

Answer

Tell the patient it is fine to crush any tablet

Answer

Advise the patient to split the tablet in half instead

Answer

Tell the patient to dissolve it in water before taking

Question 2

Which auxiliary label is most appropriate for a prescription of tetracycline?

Accepted Answer

Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight

Answer

Take with a full glass of milk

Answer

May cause drowsiness—do not drive

Answer

Refrigerate after opening

Question 3

When a patient's address changes, updating it in the pharmacy system is important primarily because:

Accepted Answer

Correct address ensures medication deliveries reach the patient and emergency contacts can be verified

Answer

Insurance companies require address changes monthly

Answer

State law requires addresses be updated every 90 days

Answer

The prescriber needs the new address on file

Question 4

A patient asks the technician about the difference between brand-name Synthroid and generic levothyroxine. The technician should:

Accepted Answer

Refer the patient to the pharmacist and note that substitution questions may involve clinical considerations for thyroid medications

Answer

Tell the patient generics are always identical to brand and switch them automatically

Answer

Tell the patient brand is always better and not to accept generics

Answer

Advise the patient to stop taking levothyroxine until they speak with their doctor

Question 5

What information should always be verified when a patient picks up a prescription to ensure the right patient receives the right medication?

Accepted Answer

Full name and date of birth

Answer

Health insurance card number only

Answer

Phone number only

Answer

Prescriber name only

Question 6

A patient asks why their nitroglycerin tablets must be kept in the original amber glass bottle. The best technician response is:

Accepted Answer

Nitroglycerin is sensitive to light, heat, and moisture, so the original container protects potency—the pharmacist can explain more

Answer

Tell the patient the bottle is only for decoration

Answer

Advise the patient any dark bottle will work

Answer

Tell the patient the instruction is outdated and they can use a plastic bottle

Question 7

A patient mentions they have been self-medicating with St. John's Wort for depression. Why is this important information for the pharmacist to know?

Accepted Answer

St. John's Wort has significant drug interactions, including reducing the effectiveness of many prescription medications

Answer

St. John's Wort is FDA-approved and has no interactions

Answer

Herbal supplements never interact with prescription drugs

Answer

The pharmacist only needs to know about prescription medications