RRT RRT Pharmacology 3

Question 1

What is the first-line bronchodilator for acute COPD exacerbation?

Accepted Answer

Short-acting beta-2 agonist (e.g., albuterol)

Answer

Short-acting beta-2 agonists like albuterol provide rapid bronchodilation and are the cornerstone of acute COPD exacerbation management.

Question 2

Which opioid analgesic can suppress respiratory drive and requires careful monitoring in ventilated patients?

Accepted Answer

Fentanyl

Answer

Fentanyl is a potent opioid that binds mu receptors in the brainstem, reducing respiratory rate and tidal volume, requiring careful titration.

Question 3

Heliox therapy improves breathing effort primarily by doing what?

Accepted Answer

Reducing gas density to decrease airflow resistance

Answer

Helium-oxygen mixture (heliox) has lower density than air, reducing turbulent airflow resistance and work of breathing in upper airway obstruction.

Question 4

What is the purpose of administering magnesium sulfate in severe asthma exacerbations?

Accepted Answer

Acts as a bronchodilator by relaxing smooth muscle

Answer

Magnesium sulfate causes bronchodilation by antagonizing calcium-mediated smooth muscle contraction when standard bronchodilators are insufficient.

Question 5

Which sedative/hypnotic preserves spontaneous breathing and is used in procedural sedation for intubation?

Accepted Answer

Ketamine

Answer

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that maintains airway reflexes and respiratory drive, making it useful for emergency airway management.

RRT Exam Practice Test