RPN Safe Medication Administration 3

Question 1

Which route of administration provides the fastest onset of action in an emergency situation?

Accepted Answer

Intravenous

Answer

Intravenous administration delivers medication directly into the bloodstream, producing the fastest onset of action.

Question 2

A nurse is about to administer morphine 4 mg IV. The patient's respiratory rate is 10 breaths per minute. What should the nurse do?

Accepted Answer

Hold the medication and notify the prescriber

Answer

A respiratory rate below 12 is a contraindication to opioid administration; the nurse must withhold the dose and contact the prescriber.

Question 3

When reconstituting a powdered medication, what should the nurse do immediately after adding diluent?

Accepted Answer

Roll the vial gently between the palms and inspect for complete dissolution

Answer

Gently rolling ensures complete dissolution without creating excessive bubbles, and visual inspection confirms the solution is clear before use.

Question 4

A patient with a documented penicillin allergy is prescribed amoxicillin. What is the nurse's priority action?

Accepted Answer

Withhold the medication and clarify the order with the prescriber

Answer

Amoxicillin is a penicillin-class antibiotic; administering it to a patient with a documented penicillin allergy is unsafe and requires prescriber clarification.

Question 5

Which statement about the administration of enteric-coated tablets is correct?

Accepted Answer

They must be swallowed whole to protect the stomach lining

Answer

Enteric-coated tablets must not be crushed or chewed because the coating protects the stomach or ensures the drug releases in the intestine.

RPN - Registered Practical Nurse Practice Test

RPN - Registered Practical Nurse Practice Test

RPN Safe Medication Administration 3