Saudi Prometric Nursing Pharmacology and Drug Calculations 3

Question 1

The nurse is preparing to administer insulin. The order reads: 'Regular insulin 10 units IV push.' The available vial is U-100 insulin. How many mL should be drawn up?

Accepted Answer

0.1 mL

Answer

U-100 insulin contains 100 units per mL. Volume = 10 units ÷ 100 units/mL = 0.1 mL. This small volume requires use of an insulin syringe for accuracy. Note: only regular insulin is used IV; NPH and long-acting insulins are not for IV use.

Question 2

Which of the following antibiotics requires dose adjustment in patients with renal impairment?

Accepted Answer

Gentamicin

Answer

Gentamicin (an aminoglycoside) is renally excreted and accumulates in renal impairment, increasing the risk of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Azithromycin, clindamycin, and metronidazole are primarily hepatically metabolized and generally do not require renal dose adjustment.

Question 3

A nurse is preparing an IV infusion of nitroglycerin. Which type of IV tubing must be used?

Accepted Answer

Non-PVC, non-DEHP tubing (special nitroglycerin tubing)

Answer

Nitroglycerin is absorbed by PVC (polyvinyl chloride) IV tubing and bags, significantly reducing the delivered dose. Special non-PVC, non-DEHP tubing must be used to ensure the patient receives the full prescribed dose. This is a critical nursing safety point.

Question 4

The nurse is teaching a patient about taking oral iron supplements. Which instruction maximizes iron absorption?

Accepted Answer

Take on an empty stomach or with vitamin C (orange juice)

Answer

Iron absorption is maximized in an acidic environment and is enhanced by vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Milk, calcium, antacids, and high-fiber foods reduce iron absorption. Taking iron with vitamin C can increase absorption by 2–3 times.

Question 5

A patient is prescribed metoprolol. What is the most important assessment before administering a beta-blocker?

Accepted Answer

Heart rate and blood pressure

Answer

Before administering any beta-blocker, the nurse must assess heart rate and blood pressure. Beta-blockers slow heart rate and reduce blood pressure. They should be withheld if HR <60 bpm or systolic BP <90 mmHg (per institutional parameters or physician orders).

Saudi Prometric Nursing Practice Test

Saudi Prometric Nursing Practice Test

Saudi Prometric Nursing Pharmacology and Drug Calculations 3