RPN Safe Medication Administration 2

Question 1

A patient is prescribed metformin 500 mg PO BID. When is the best time to administer this medication?

Accepted Answer

With meals to reduce GI upset

Answer

Metformin should be taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhea.

Question 2

Which action should the RPN take first when a medication error is discovered?

Accepted Answer

Assess the patient for adverse effects

Answer

Patient safety is the priority; the RPN must first assess the patient for any adverse effects from the medication error.

Question 3

A nurse is preparing to administer a subcutaneous insulin injection. Which site rotation principle is most important?

Accepted Answer

Rotate sites within each anatomical region before moving to another

Answer

Rotating within one anatomical region before switching to another ensures consistent insulin absorption rates.

Question 4

When administering an IV piggyback medication, the RPN should verify compatibility with which primary solution first?

Accepted Answer

Review the pharmacy compatibility reference or pharmacist

Answer

Drug compatibility must be verified through a reliable pharmacy reference or pharmacist before mixing or co-administering IV medications.

Question 5

A patient refuses a prescribed medication. What is the appropriate RPN response?

Accepted Answer

Document the refusal and notify the prescriber

Answer

Patients have the right to refuse treatment; the nurse must document the refusal and inform the prescriber so the care plan can be adjusted.

RPN - Registered Practical Nurse Practice Test