Abrams' Clinical Drug Therapy: Rationales for Nursing Practice, 11th Edition Test Bank
Abrams' Clinical Drug Therapy: Rationales for Nursing Practice, 11th Edition Test Bank offers detailed practice questions to sharpen your exam readiness. Download now!
substances into secretory granules?
A) Golgi apparatus
B) Endoplasmic reticulum
C) Mitochondria
D) Lysosome
Ans: A
Feedback:
The golgi apparatus stores hormones and other substances. The endoplasmic reticulum
contains ribosomes, which synthesize proteins, including enzymes that synthesize
glycogen, triglycerides, and steroids and those that metabolize drugs and other
chemicals. The mitochondria generate energy for cellular activities and require oxygen.
Lysosomes are membrane-enclosed vesicles that contain enzymes capable of digesting
nutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, fats), damaged cellular structures, foreign substances
(bacteria), and the cell itself.
2. A patient is suffering from a cough associated with an upper respiratory infection.
Which oral medication will likely produce the most therapeutic effect?
A) A tablet
B) An expectorant
C) A topical spray
D) A timed-release tablet
Ans: B
Feedback:
Liquid medications are absorbed faster than tablets or capsules. Expectorants are liquid
medications. A tablet is an oral medication that has a slower onset of action than a liquid
medication. A topical spray can be sprayed to the back of the throat and provides only a
local effect. A timed-release tablet is an oral medication that has a slower onset and
longer duration of action.
3. A patient is administered an oral contraceptive. Which of the following is the process
that occurs between the time the drug enters the body and the time that it enters the
bloodstream?
A) Absorption
B) Distribution
C) Metabolism
D) Excretion
Ans: A
Feedback:
Absorption is the process that occurs from the time the drug enters the body to the time
it enters the bloodstream to be circulated. Distribution involves the transport of drug
molecules within the body. Metabolism is the method by which drugs are inactivated or
biotransformed by the body. Excretion refers to elimination of a drug from the body.
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substances into secretory granules?
A) Golgi apparatus
B) Endoplasmic reticulum
C) Mitochondria
D) Lysosome
Ans: A
Feedback:
The golgi apparatus stores hormones and other substances. The endoplasmic reticulum
contains ribosomes, which synthesize proteins, including enzymes that synthesize
glycogen, triglycerides, and steroids and those that metabolize drugs and other
chemicals. The mitochondria generate energy for cellular activities and require oxygen.
Lysosomes are membrane-enclosed vesicles that contain enzymes capable of digesting
nutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, fats), damaged cellular structures, foreign substances
(bacteria), and the cell itself.
2. A patient is suffering from a cough associated with an upper respiratory infection.
Which oral medication will likely produce the most therapeutic effect?
A) A tablet
B) An expectorant
C) A topical spray
D) A timed-release tablet
Ans: B
Feedback:
Liquid medications are absorbed faster than tablets or capsules. Expectorants are liquid
medications. A tablet is an oral medication that has a slower onset of action than a liquid
medication. A topical spray can be sprayed to the back of the throat and provides only a
local effect. A timed-release tablet is an oral medication that has a slower onset and
longer duration of action.
3. A patient is administered an oral contraceptive. Which of the following is the process
that occurs between the time the drug enters the body and the time that it enters the
bloodstream?
A) Absorption
B) Distribution
C) Metabolism
D) Excretion
Ans: A
Feedback:
Absorption is the process that occurs from the time the drug enters the body to the time
it enters the bloodstream to be circulated. Distribution involves the transport of drug
molecules within the body. Metabolism is the method by which drugs are inactivated or
biotransformed by the body. Excretion refers to elimination of a drug from the body.
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large surface area for drug absorption?
A) Rectum
B) Fundus of the stomach
C) Esophagus
D) Lungs
Ans: D
Feedback:
The lungs have a large surface area for absorption of anesthetic gases and a few other
drugs. The rectum absorbs the medication through the mucous membranes and has a
smaller surface area than the lungs. The fundus and esophagus have comparatively small
surface areas.
5. A nurse is aware of the importance of adhering to the intended route of a medication.
Which of the following drugs are formulated to be absorbed through the skin?
A) Amoxicillin, tetracycline, and penicillin
B) Clonidine, fentanyl, and nitroglycerin
C) Digoxin, lidocaine, and propranolol
D) Insulin, heparin, and morphine
Ans: B
Feedback:
Some drugs are formulated in adhesive skin patches for absorption through the skin.
Clonidine, fentanyl, and nitroglycerin are examples of drugs that are formulated in
adhesive skin patch form to be absorbed through the skin. Amoxicillin, tetracycline, and
penicillin are administered orally. Digoxin and propranolol are administered orally, and
lidocaine can be administered intravenously, subcutaneously, or topically. Insulin and
heparin are administered intravenously and subcutaneously. Morphine is administered
orally, intramuscularly, and intravenously.
6. An 85-year-old patient has an elevated serum creatinine level, indicating impaired
kidney function. When the patient is administered a medication, this patient is at risk for
which of the following medication-related effects?
A) Toxicity
B) Increased absorption
C) Delayed gastric emptying
D) Idiosyncratic effects
Ans: A
Feedback:
An elevated creatinine level is indicative of diminished kidney function, which will
result in serum drug toxicity. The creatinine level indicates kidney function, does not
affect absorption, and has no effect on gastric emptying.
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large surface area for drug absorption?
A) Rectum
B) Fundus of the stomach
C) Esophagus
D) Lungs
Ans: D
Feedback:
The lungs have a large surface area for absorption of anesthetic gases and a few other
drugs. The rectum absorbs the medication through the mucous membranes and has a
smaller surface area than the lungs. The fundus and esophagus have comparatively small
surface areas.
5. A nurse is aware of the importance of adhering to the intended route of a medication.
Which of the following drugs are formulated to be absorbed through the skin?
A) Amoxicillin, tetracycline, and penicillin
B) Clonidine, fentanyl, and nitroglycerin
C) Digoxin, lidocaine, and propranolol
D) Insulin, heparin, and morphine
Ans: B
Feedback:
Some drugs are formulated in adhesive skin patches for absorption through the skin.
Clonidine, fentanyl, and nitroglycerin are examples of drugs that are formulated in
adhesive skin patch form to be absorbed through the skin. Amoxicillin, tetracycline, and
penicillin are administered orally. Digoxin and propranolol are administered orally, and
lidocaine can be administered intravenously, subcutaneously, or topically. Insulin and
heparin are administered intravenously and subcutaneously. Morphine is administered
orally, intramuscularly, and intravenously.
6. An 85-year-old patient has an elevated serum creatinine level, indicating impaired
kidney function. When the patient is administered a medication, this patient is at risk for
which of the following medication-related effects?
A) Toxicity
B) Increased absorption
C) Delayed gastric emptying
D) Idiosyncratic effects
Ans: A
Feedback:
An elevated creatinine level is indicative of diminished kidney function, which will
result in serum drug toxicity. The creatinine level indicates kidney function, does not
affect absorption, and has no effect on gastric emptying.
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has which of the following effects on drug action?
A) Increases the drug's speed of action
B) Decreases the drug's speed of action
C) Increases the rate of excretion
D) Averts adverse effects
Ans: B
Feedback:
Protein binding allows part of a drug to be stored and released as needed. Drugs that are
highly bound to plasma proteins or stored extensively in other tissues have a long
duration of action. Protein binding does not increase the speed of action, increase the
excretion rate, or avert adverse effects. Protein binding decreases the speed of action by
storing the drug to be released when needed.
8. A patient is taking a medication that is metabolized by the CYP enzymes. Which of the
following medications inhibits several of the CYP enzymes?
A) Cisplatin
B) Acebutolol hydrochloride
C) Cimetidine
D) Dicloxacillin sodium
Ans: C
Feedback:
Cimetidine is a gastric acid suppressor that inhibits several CYP enzymes and can
greatly decrease drug metabolism. The other listed drugs do not have this specific effect.
9. A nurse is aware that the dosing scheduling of a patient's new medication takes into
account the serum half-life of the drug. What is the serum half-life of a medication?
A) The time required for IV medications to penetrate the brain tissue
B) The time needed for the serum level to fall by 50%
C) The safest margin to prevent toxicity
D) The dose adjustment that reduces the risk of adverse effects by one half
Ans: B
Feedback:
Serum half-life is the time required for the serum concentration of a drug to decrease by
50%. Although many IV medications penetrate the brain tissue, this action does not
describe the half-life. The safest margin to prevent toxicity depends on the rate of
metabolism and excretion. The half-life of the medication does not relate directly to a
specific reduction in adverse effects.
10. A patient has increased intracranial pressure and is ordered to receive a diuretic. Which
of the following diuretics does not act on receptor sites to produce diuresis?
A) Furosemide (Lasix)
B) Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)
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D) Mannitol (Osmitrol)
Ans: D
Feedback:
Mannitol (Osmitrol) is an osmotic diuretic that increases the osmolarity of plasma and
pulls water out of the tissues into the bloodstream. It does not act on receptor sites.
Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic that inhibits the reabsorption of sodium and
chloride in the loop of Henle. Hydrochlorothiazide is associated with drug interference
with absorption of sodium ions across the distal renal tubule. Spironolactone acts by
competing with aldosterone for cellular receptor sites.
11. A patient older than 65 years is more likely to experience drug reaction than a much
younger patient. Which of the following factors accounts for this variation?
A) Drugs more readily crossing the blood–brain barrier in older people
B) Age-related physiologic changes
C) Increased drug-metabolizing enzymes in older people
D) Diminished immune response
Ans: B
Feedback:
In older adults (65 years and older), physiologic changes may alter all pharmacokinetic
processes. Although drugs crossing the blood–brain barrier affect drug reaction, this
factor is important in all ages. Increased drug-metabolizing enzymes are key in all ages
and do not relate to age variations. A diminished immune response is important in all
ages and does not affect all medications.
12. A patient who is 6 feet tall and weighs 280 pounds will require which of the following
doses?
A) Higher dose than a patient who weighs 180 pounds
B) Lower dose than a patient who weighs 180 pounds
C) Same dose as a patient who weighs 180 pounds
D) A parenteral rather than oral dose
Ans: A
Feedback:
In general, people heavier than average may need larger doses, provided their renal,
hepatic, and cardiovascular functions are adequate.
13. A nurse has provided an oral dose of morphine, an opioid agonist, to a woman in early
labor. The nurse should be aware of what characteristic of agonists?
A) Agonists alter the normal processes of distribution and metabolism.
B) Agonists counteract the action of specific neurotransmitters.
C) Agonists block the action of specific neurotransmitters.
D) Agonists bind to receptors and cause a physiological effect.
Ans: D
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Agonists are drugs that produce effects similar to those produced by naturally occurring
hormones, neurotransmitters, and other substances by activating (not blocking or
counteracting) a receptor. Classification of a drug as an agonist does not denote a
change to metabolism or distribution.
14. A nurse is preparing to simultaneously administer two drugs to a patient. The nurse
knows that the drugs have been ordered to be given together because of their synergistic
effect. This means that
A) the adverse effects of one of the drugs are nullified by the other drug.
B) the combined effects are greater than the effects of either one of the drugs alone.
C) one of the drugs enhances metabolism, while the other drug enhances either distribution
or absorption.
D) both drugs are toxic in isolation but therapeutic when administered together.
Ans: B
Feedback:
Synergism occurs when two drugs with different sites or mechanisms of action produce
greater effects when taken together. This does not mean that potential toxicity or adverse
effects are “canceled out.” The two drugs would not individually affect different aspects
of pharmacokinetics.
15. A patient has been brought to the emergency department by ambulance, and his friend
states that he has overdosed on methadone, a long-acting opioid. The care team is
preparing to administer the appropriate antidote, naloxone, which has a shorter half-life
than methadone. What are the implications of this aspect of pharmacokinetics?
A) Repeated doses of naloxone will likely be necessary.
B) A different antidote will be required after the serum level of naloxone decreases.
C) An increased dose of naloxone will be required.
D) The antidote is unlikely to have a therapeutic effect on the patient's symptoms.
Ans: A
Feedback:
When an antidote is used, its half-life relative to the toxin's half-life must be considered.
For example, the half-life of naloxone, a narcotic antagonist, is relatively short
compared with the half-life of the longer-acting opioids such as methadone, and
repeated doses may be needed to prevent recurrence of the toxic state.
16. A patient tells the nurse, “I took my sleeping pill yesterday evening, but it didn't seem to
work for me like it usually does.” The nurse should consider which of the following
variables that can affect drug absorption? Select all that apply.
A) GI function
B) Blood flow to the site of administration
C) The presence of other drugs
D) Route of administration
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Ans: A, B, C, D
Feedback:
Numerous factors affect the rate and extent of drug absorption, including dosage form,
route of administration, blood flow to the site of administration, GI function, the
presence of food or other drugs, and other variables. Agonist activity is a relevant
variable, but this is not an aspect of absorption.
17. A nurse has administered a dose of a drug that is known to be highly protein bound.
What are the implications of this characteristic?
A) The patient must consume adequate protein in order to achieve a therapeutic effect.
B) The molecules of the drug that are bound to protein are inactive.
C) Increased levels of serum protein will increase the effect of the drug.
D) Each molecule of the drug must bind to a protein molecule to become effective.
Ans: B
Feedback:
Drug molecules bound to plasma proteins are pharmacologically inactive because the
large size of the complex prevents their leaving the bloodstream through the small
openings in capillary walls and reaching their sites of action, metabolism, and excretion.
Only the free or unbound portion of a drug acts on body cells. The patient's protein
intake or levels of protein are not normally relevant.
18. A patient requires a high dose of his new antihypertensive medication because the new
medication has a significant first-pass effect. This means that the drug
A) must pass through the patient's bloodstream several times to generate a therapeutic effect.
B) passes through the renal tubules and is excreted in large amounts.
C) is extensively metabolized in the patient's liver.
D) is ineffective following the first dose and increasingly effective with each subsequent
dose.
Ans: C
Feedback:
Some drugs are extensively metabolized in the liver, with only part of a drug dose
reaching the systemic circulation for distribution to sites of action. This is called the
first-pass effect or presystemic metabolism. The first-pass effect is not related to renal
function or the need to pass through the bloodstream multiple times.
19. A patient with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder has begun lithium therapy, and the nurse
has explained the need for regular monitoring of the patient's serum drug levels. What is
the primary rationale for the nurse's instruction?
A) It is necessary to regularly test for blood–drug incompatibilities that may develop during
treatment.
B) It is necessary to ensure that the patient's drug levels are therapeutic but not toxic.
C) It is needed to determine if additional medications will be needed to potentiate the effects
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D) It is needed in order to confirm the patient's adherence to the drug regimen.
Ans: B
Feedback:
Measuring serum drug levels is useful when drugs with a narrow margin of safety are
given, because their therapeutic doses are close to their toxic doses. This is the case
during lithium therapy. Serum levels are not commonly taken to monitor adherence to
treatment. Blood–drug incompatibilities are not a relevant consideration.
20. A patient in cardiovascular collapse requires pharmacological interventions involving a
rapid drug action and response. What route of administration is most likely appropriate?
A) Intravenous
B) Oral
C) Rectal
D) Topical
Ans: A
Feedback:
For rapid drug action and response, the IV route is most effective because the drug is
injected directly into the bloodstream.
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pharmacotherapy in patients younger than 18. Which of the following principles should
the nurse integrate into care?
A) The physiology of patients older than 15 can be considered to be the same as an adult
patient.
B) The younger the patient, the greater the variation in medication action compared to an
adult.
C) The larger the patient's body mass index, the more his or her physiology varies from that
of an adult.
D) Pediatric patients have a greater potential to benefit from pharmacotherapy than adult
patients.
Ans: B
Feedback:
The younger the patient, the greater the variation in medication action when compared
to an adult. This does not necessarily equate into a greater potential for benefit, however.
BMI is not the main or sole basis of variations between adults and children.
2. An infant who is 3 weeks old was born at full gestation but was just brought to the
emergency department with signs and symptoms of failure to thrive. This pediatric
patient will be classified into what pediatric age group?
A) Full-term baby
B) Young infant
C) Neonate
D) Early postnatal
Ans: C
Feedback:
Neonates are considered to be infants from full-term newborn 0 to 4 weeks of age.
3. A pediatric nurse practitioner is aware that there are many knowledge gaps that still
exist in the evidence base that underlies pediatric pharmacology. Many of these
knowledge gaps are rooted in
A) a lack of scientific understanding of the anatomy and physiology of children and infants.
B) the historical lack of pediatric participation in the drug testing process.
C) the fact that research grants in pharmacology have traditionally specified adult
participation.
D) assumptions that there are no physiological differences between adults and children.
Ans: B
Feedback:
Historically, researchers used only adults to test medications, and prescribers simply
assumed that smaller doses would elicit the same results in smaller patients. The
knowledge base surrounding anatomical and physiological differences between adults
and children is substantial, and grant funding is not typically limited to adult
participation.
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antibiotic treatment is indicated. The prescriber knows that the recommended antibiotic
has not been extensively studied in pediatric patients. Consequently, the prescriber will
be obliged to do which of the following?
A) Administer subtherapeutic doses in order to mitigate the potential for adverse effects
B) Choose a different antibiotic that has been extensively tested in children
C) Apply vigilant clinical judgment when administering the antibiotic to the child
D) Have the child's family sign informed consent forms absolving the care team from
responsibility for adverse effects
Ans: C
Feedback:
Prescribers must continue to treat pediatric patients with drugs for which they lack
information; therefore, they must practice good assessment, dosing, and evaluation
during the administration of any medication to a pediatric patient. Alternative drugs are
not always an option, and a lack of data does not absolve the care team from
responsibility for adverse outcomes.
5. A 9-year-old boy with severe influenza symptoms will be treated with ribavirin
(Rebetol), an antiviral that is usually taken by adults twice daily in doses of 600 mg PO.
After learning that the child's body surface area (BSA) is 1.10, the nurse will anticipate
that the child will likely receive how much ribavirin for each dose?
A) 110 mg
B) 380 mg
C) 545 mg
D) 660 mg
Ans: B
Feedback:
The prescriber calculates a dose based on a known adult dose by using the following
equation: pediatric dose = BSA/1.73 × adult dose. Thus, 1.1 1.73 × 600 = 381.5 mg.
This would likely be rounded to 380 mg.
6. Significant pharmacodynamic variations exist between adult patients and pediatric
patients. Which of the following factors are known to contribute to differences in the
ways that drugs affect target cells in children and infants? Select all that apply.
A) Inability of children to accurately describe adverse effects
B) Immaturity of children's organ systems
C) Differences in the body composition of children
D) The lack of active immunity in children
E) Differences in the function of humoral immunity in children
Ans: B, C
Feedback:
Immature organ systems and changing body compositions mean that drugs affect
children differently. Causes of pharmacodynamic variability across the lifespan include
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water, fat stores, and protein amounts change throughout childhood and greatly
influence the effectiveness of drugs in the pediatric population. Children are indeed less
able to describe adverse effects, but this is not a pharmacodynamics variation.
Differences in the function of the immune system are not noted to significantly
influence pharmacodynamics.
7. A 2-year-old girl with a recent history of idiopathic nausea and vomiting was prescribed
promethazine (Phenergan) by her primary care provider. The immaturity of this child's
gastrointestinal system will primarily influence what aspect of pharmacokinetics?
A) Absorption
B) Distribution
C) Metabolism
D) Elimination
Ans: A
Feedback:
Gastric emptying and intestinal motility greatly affect the child's drug absorption. The
GI tract is less directly involved in distribution, metabolism, and elimination.
8. A neonate has been prescribed a water-soluble drug for the treatment of an acute
infection. The nurse recognizes that the percentage of body water in an infant is
significantly higher than that of an adult. What implication does this have for
pharmacotherapy of an infant?
A) The drug will need to be emulsified before administration.
B) The infant's fluid intake will be reduced before and after administration.
C) The infant will have a fat-soluble drug substituted.
D) The infant may require an increased dose of the drug.
Ans: D
Feedback:
In adults, total body water is approximately 60%, whereas in newborns, it is 80%. This
difference means that water-soluble drugs are diluted easily and readily moved into
intercellular tissue. As a result, serum drug concentrations are lower, and increased
dosages of water-soluble drugs may be necessary to maintain therapeutic drug levels.
Substitutes may not be available, and fluid restriction does not compensate for this
physiological difference.
9. An infant with recent seizures is being treated in the neonatal intensive care unit with
phenytoin (Dilantin). The infant's low plasma protein levels during the first year of life
have what consequence?
A) The infant may have an unpredictable drug response.
B) The infant may have an increased risk of toxicity.
C) The infant may experience impaired elimination of the drug.
D) The infant will have an increased rate of drug metabolism.
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Feedback:
In infants, immature liver function leads to very low plasma protein levels, which limit
the amount of protein binding by drugs. Consequently, the serum concentrations of
highly protein-bound drugs may be higher, and toxicity may occur. This is not a result of
differences in elimination or increased metabolism.
10. Which of the following laboratory tests relates most directly with the impaired drug
elimination that is expected in neonates?
A) C-reactive protein level
B) Creatine kinase
C) Serum albumin level
D) Glomerular filtration rate
Ans: D
Feedback:
Excretion of most drugs occurs via the kidneys, and elimination in the urine follows.
Young children have immature kidneys, a reduced glomerular filtration rate, and slower
renal clearance. Neonates are especially prone to increased levels of drugs that are
eliminated primarily by the kidneys. CK, albumin, and C-reactive protein levels do not
directly relate to this physiological characteristic.
11. The nurse has experienced challenges in administering a 3-year-old boy's oral
antibiotics due to the boy's resistance. How can the nurse best ensure that this patient
receives his necessary medication?
A) Convince the boy that the medication is actually a treat, especially reserved for him.
B) Mix the medication with pleasantly flavored syrup or pureed fruit.
C) Withdraw some of the child's privileges if he refuses to take his medication.
D) Distract the child with a toy and then put it in his mouth quickly.
Ans: B
Feedback:
To make oral medications more palatable, the nurse may mix them with flavored syrups
or fruit purees. It would be inappropriate to use negative reinforcement, and medications
should not be characterized as candy or treats. Sneaking the medication into the child's
mouth will not ensure that it will be swallowed.
12. Oral acetaminophen has been ordered for a young child who has a fever. A liquid form
has been obtained by the nurse to increase the chance of problem-free administration.
Prior to administration, the nurse is going through the rights of medication
administration. When confirming the right dose, what term is most appropriate?
A) “160 mg”
B) “One teaspoon”
C) “One third of a tablespoon”
D) “5 mL”
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Feedback:
To ensure accuracy and safety, the nurse should administer medications based on
individual dosages in milligrams, micrograms, or units, not on variables such as tablets,
teaspoons, or milliliters, for which the concentration may vary.
13. A nurse is preparing to administer a nebulized bronchodilator to a young child with
asthma. The nurse should be aware that this child's dosage is based primarily on what
characteristic of the child?
A) Weight
B) Age
C) Body type
D) Development stage
Ans: A
Feedback:
Dosages of pediatric medications are calculated based on weight.
14. An emergency department nurse is confirming that a child's ordered dose of IV
analgesia is congruent with her body surface area (BSA). In order to calculate the child's
BSA, the nurse must know which of the following variables? Select all that apply.
A) The child's height
B) The child's percentage of body water
C) The child's weight
D) The usual adult dose of the drug
E) The child's age in months
Ans: A, C
Feedback:
BSA is calculated using the child's weight and height. The child's age and the normal
adult dose are normally relevant to dosing, but not to the calculation of BSA.
15. An infant's antiseizure medication has been ordered after careful consideration of the
unique pharmacokinetics among this population. What characteristic of neonates has the
greatest bearing on drug metabolism?
A) The undeveloped state of the blood–brain barrier
B) Increased gastric motility in infants
C) The infant's undeveloped renal function
D) Immaturity of the infant's liver
Ans: D
Feedback:
The enzyme cytochrome P450 (CYP450) in the liver metabolizes most drugs. In
neonates, the ability to metabolize drugs is very low because of the immaturity of the
liver and the resultant inability to break down drugs. Characteristics of the kidneys, the
blood–brain barrier, and GI function do not primarily affect metabolism.
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stating, “It just seems so terribly invasive.” What principle should guide the nurse's use
of suppositories in infant patients?
A) Suppositories are generally avoided unless absolutely necessary, due to the risk of
injuring the rectal mucosa.
B) Suppositories can be an effective means of administering medications to infants, since
oral administration is often challenging.
C) Suppositories should only be administered after the nurse manually clears the infant's
rectum.
D) Suppositories are poorly absorbed in infants due to their immature gastrointestinal tract.
Ans: B
Feedback:
Suppositories are an effective way of administering medications to infants. They do not
require manual clearing of the rectum prior to administration. Suppositories are well
absorbed.
17. A public health nurse is preparing to administer an intramuscular injection of a vaccine
to an 8-year-old girl. The nurse recognizes that the child is uncharacteristically quiet and
appears tense. The nurse should recognize the possibility of what nursing diagnosis?
A) Fear related to IM injection
B) Acute confusion related to misunderstanding of the necessity of IM injection
C) Risk for injury related to IM injection
D) Ineffective coping related to reluctance to receive IM injection
Ans: A
Feedback:
IM injections are frightening for older children, and they need praise and
encouragement. Fear is a far more likely cause of this child's behavior than confusion or
ineffective coping. There is risk for injury associated with IM injections, but the nurse
can mitigate this risk through proper technique.
18. A 4-year-old boy is postoperative day one following surgery for trauma suffered in a
motor vehicle accident. The boy is in pain, and the nurse is preparing to administer a
dose of hydromorphone syrup as ordered. To administer this drug, the nurse should use
A) a teaspoon.
B) a transparent, 2-ounce medication cup.
C) a parenteral syringe with the needle removed.
D) an oral syringe.
Ans: D
Feedback:
The nurse should administer oral medications only in oral syringes. Other methods have
the potential to be inaccurate.
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pregnancy. Which herbal agent has traditionally been used as an antiemetic?
A) Ginger
B) Garlic
C) Ginkgo biloba
D) Green tea
Ans: A
Feedback:
Ginger has been used to relieve nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Garlic, Ginkgo
biloba, and green tea are not recommended to relieve nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.
2. A pregnant woman asks why she needs to take a folic acid supplement. What is the
nurse's best explanation for the administration of folic acid?
A) “Folic acid prevents the development of contractions.”
B) “Folic acid prevents neural tube birth defects.”
C) “Folic acid builds strong fetal bones.”
D) “Folic acid will decrease nausea and vomiting.”
Ans: B
Feedback:
Folic acid prevents neural tube birth defects. Folic acid does not prevent contractions.
Folic acid will not build fetal bones. Folic acid will not prevent nausea and vomiting.
3. A woman is being administered IV magnesium sulfate. What is a desired outcome
related to the administration of magnesium sulfate?
A) Increased contractions
B) Respiratory rate above 18
C) Decreased blood pressure
D) Increased uterine tone
Ans: C
Feedback:
The administration of magnesium sulfate can prevent seizure activity and reduce severe
hypertension. Magnesium sulfate is administered for preterm labor to prevent
contractions and reduce uterine tone, not to increase respiratory rate.
4. A woman who began labor several hours ago is to be administered oxytocin. What is the
goal of oxytocin therapy?
A) Prevent postpartum bleeding
B) Decrease fetal hyperactivity
C) Augment weak or irregular contractions
D) Diminish periods of relaxation
Ans: C
Feedback:
Use of this manufactured hormone induces labor or augments weak, irregular uterine
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administered to decrease fetal hyperactivity. The administration of oxytocin should
allow for adequate periods of relaxation between contractions.
5. A woman in labor is being treated with magnesium sulfate intravenously and is
beginning to show signs and symptoms of hypermagnesemia. The infusion has been
discontinued, and the nurse should anticipate administration of what drug?
A) Metoprolol (Lopressor)
B) Calcium gluconate
C) Potassium chloride
D) Furosemide (Lasix)
Ans: B
Feedback:
Overdoses of magnesium sulfate may lead to hypotension, muscle paralysis, respiratory
depression, and cardiac arrest. Calcium gluconate, the antidote for magnesium sulfate,
should be readily available for use if hypermagnesemia occurs.
6. A patient is being administered magnesium sulfate for preterm labor. The patient's
serum magnesium level is elevated at 11 mg/dL. With what sign or symptom will the
patient likely present?
A) Tachypnea
B) Muscle rigidity
C) Tachycardia
D) Depressed deep tendon reflexes
Ans: D
Feedback:
Hypermagnesemia will cause depressed deep tendon reflexes. The serum magnesium
level of 11 mg/dL would result in depressed respirations. The serum magnesium level of
11 would result in decreased muscle strength. The serum level of 11 mg/dL would result
in bradycardia, not tachycardia.
7. A woman in preterm labor has been administered terbutaline sulfate (Brethine). For
what potential adverse effects should the nurse assess the patient?
A) Pruritus (itching) and copious diaphoresis
B) Joint pain and numbness in her extremities
C) Headache and visual disturbances
D) Palpitations and shortness of breath
Ans: D
Feedback:
Terbutaline sulfate (Brethine) is a beta-adrenergic agent that inhibits uterine contractions
by reducing intracellular calcium levels. Adverse effects may include hyperkalemia,
hyperglycemia, cardiac dysrhythmias, hypotension, and pulmonary edema. Women
commonly experience hand tremors, palpitations, and shortness of breath with chest
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8. When administering magnesium sulfate, for what should the nurse assess the patient?
A) Dry, pale skin
B) Respiratory depression
C) Agitation
D) Tachycardia
Ans: B
Feedback:
Overdoses of magnesium sulfate may lead to hypotension, muscle paralysis, respiratory
depression, and cardiac arrest. The nurse would not anticipate dry, pale skin; agitation;
or tachycardia.
9. A pregnant woman states that she has been constipated since becoming pregnant. Which
medication is most appropriate for preventing constipation related to pregnancy?
A) Metamucil
B) Mineral oil
C) Saline cathartic
D) Stimulant cathartic
Ans: A
Feedback:
A bulk-producing agent, such as Metamucil, is most physiologic for the mother and safe
for the fetus. Mineral oil is not recommended because of the lack of absorption of fat-
soluble vitamins. Saline cathartics are not recommended because of hypernatremia.
Stimulant cathartics are not recommended for the pregnant woman.
10. A woman who is 7 months pregnant is waking up at night with gastroesophageal reflux.
Which of the following medications is most highly recommended?
A) Terbutaline (Brethine)
B) Diphenoxylate (Lomotil)
C) Ranitidine (Zantac)
D) Chlorothiazide (Diuril)
Ans: C
Feedback:
A histamine2 receptor antagonist, such as ranitidine, is used for gastroesophageal reflux
disease. Terbutaline is a tocolytic agent. Diphenoxylate is not administered for GERD.
Chlorothiazide is a diuretic agent.
11. A woman who takes highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for HIV/AIDS has
become pregnant. What effect will the woman's pregnancy have on her drug regimen?
A) She must discontinue HAART due to the risk of teratogenic effects.
B) Her dosages of HAART must be increased to reduce the risk of in utero transmission.
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D) Some components of her HAART must be replaced or discontinued.
Ans: C
Feedback:
Antiretroviral drug therapy for the pregnant woman reduces perinatal transmission by
about two thirds. In general, highly active antiretroviral therapy, or HAART, is safe,
with recommended dosage the same as for nonpregnant women.
12. A woman is at 42 weeks of gestation. Which of the following medications will be
administered to promote cervical ripening?
A) Calcium gluconate
B) Magnesium sulfate
C) Terbutaline (Brethine)
D) Dinoprostone (Cervidil)
Ans: D
Feedback:
Cervidil is administered to ripen the cervix in a woman who is at 42 weeks of gestation.
Calcium gluconate, magnesium sulfate, and terbutaline are not administered to ripen the
cervix.
13. A patient is receiving oxytocin (Pitocin). Which of the following is a maternal adverse
effect of Pitocin?
A) Acute confusion
B) Hypertension
C) Edema
D) Inverted T wave
Ans: B
Feedback:
Hypertension is a maternal adverse effect of Pitocin. Confusion, edema, and inverted T
wave are not adverse effects of Pitocin.
14. A woman was administered misoprostol (Cytotec) in an effort to induce labor, but the
care team is unsatisfied with the results. Consequently, oxytocin will be used. Prior to
administering oxytocin, what must occur?
A) Four hours must elapse after the last dose of misoprostol.
B) The woman must have a type and cross-match performed.
C) The woman must receive a bolus of 500-mL normal saline.
D) The woman must have her electrolytes measured.
Ans: A
Feedback:
If the course of treatment changes and oxytocin is to be given after misoprostol, it is
essential to wait 4 hours from the last administration of misoprostol before starting
oxytocin. Blood work and IV hydration are not necessary.
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administered orally to decrease uterine contractions?
A) Magnesium sulfate
B) Oxytocin (Pitocin)
C) Nifedipine (Procardia)
D) Terbutaline (Brethine)
Ans: D
Feedback:
Terbutaline is a beta-adrenergic agent that inhibits uterine contractions by reducing
intracellular calcium levels; oral doses can be given as maintenance therapy. Magnesium
sulfate is administered intravenously and not administered at home. Oxytocin induces
labor. Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker that decreases uterine contractions.
16. A couple have been trying unsuccessfully for nearly a year to become pregnant and have
now sought fertility counseling. The nurse should be aware of what potential etiological
factors related to infertility? Select all that apply.
A) Absence of sperm
B) Endometriosis
C) Vaginitis
D) Blocked fallopian tubes
E) Fibromyalgia
Ans: A, B, D
Feedback:
In women, the most common causes are ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes,
endometriosis, and advanced maternal age, which affects egg quality and quantity. In
men, causes include absence of sperm, declining sperm counts, testicular abnormalities,
and ejaculatory dysfunction. Vaginitis cannot cause infertility, and fibromyalgia is not
noted as a common etiological factor.
17. A woman has been unable to conceive for many months and will soon begin treatment
with clomiphene (Clomid). What health education should the nurse provide to this
patient?
A) Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Clomid.
B) Perform daily OTC pregnancy tests beginning the day after taking Clomid.
C) Take her basal temperature between 5 to 10 days after taking Clomid.
D) Report any numbness or tingling in her hands or lips to her care provider.
Ans: C
Feedback:
Ovulation occurs 5 to 10 days after the course of clomiphene treatment has been
completed. Prior to beginning the drug regimen, the nurse instructs the woman about
taking her basal temperature 5 to 10 days following administration. An incremental rise
in temperature is an indication of ovulation. There is no specific contraindication against
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18. A nurse is performing health education with a woman who has just learned that she is
pregnant. The nurse has explained the concept of teratogenic drugs and emphasized the
need to have her care provider assess any medications she should consider taking. The
nurse should teach the woman that drug-induced teratogenicity is most likely to occur at
what point in her pregnancy?
A) During the second half of her third trimester
B) In the 7 to 10 days after conception
C) In the first trimester during organogenesis
D) During 30 to 34 weeks of gestation
Ans: C
Feedback:
Drug-induced teratogenicity is most likely to occur when drugs are taken during the first
three months of pregnancy, during organogenesis.
19. A primiparous woman was vigilant in avoiding medications and herbs during her
pregnancy and states that she is similarly committed to protecting her baby's health now
that she is breast-feeding. What principle should guide the woman's use of medications
while breast-feeding?
A) Very few medications are explicitly contraindicated while breast-feeding.
B) It is generally safer to use herbs rather than medications while breast-feeding.
C) Most women can resume their prepregnancy medication regimen after delivery.
D) Most medications are contraindicated while a woman is breast-feeding.
Ans: D
Feedback:
A wide variety of medications are contraindicated during pregnancy, and herbs are not
guaranteed to be safe.
20. A woman who is in the first trimester of her pregnancy has told the nurse, “I've stopped
taking my blood pressure pill because I know it could harm the baby. Instead, I've
started taking natural and herbal remedies.” What nursing diagnosis is suggested by the
woman's statement?
A) Deficient knowledge related to drug and herbal effects during pregnancy
B) Health-seeking behaviors related to protection of fetal health
C) Acute confusion related to the potential teratogenic effects of herbs
D) Effective therapeutic regimen management related to use of herbs rather than drugs
Ans: A
Feedback:
This patient is evidently unaware of the fact that herbs pose risks to her fetus and that
such risks are not limited to drugs. The nurse should address this knowledge gap. Acute
confusion suggests a deficit in cognitive processes, not a lack of relevant and accurate
information.
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action of this medication?
A) It inhibits protein synthesis.
B) It lowers the pH of cellular contents.
C) It causes mutations.
D) It inhibits cell wall synthesis.
Ans: D
Feedback:
Beta-lactam antibacterial drugs inhibit synthesis of bacterial cell walls by binding to
proteins in bacterial cell membranes. Penicillin V does not inhibit protein synthesis,
cause mutations, or lower the pH of a bacterium's cellular contents.
2. A patient previously experienced an anaphylactic reaction to penicillin G. Which of the
following medications should not be administered to this patient due to the potential for
cross-sensitivity?
A) Lactulose (Chronulac)
B) Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
C) Kanamycin (Kantrex)
D) Cefadroxil (Duricef)
Ans: D
Feedback:
Cefadroxil (Duricef) is a cephalosporin. Administration of cephalosporins or
carbapenems should be avoided if possible in people with life-threatening allergic
reactions to penicillin. Lactulose reduces blood ammonia by resident intestinal bacteria.
It is not contraindicated in the event of penicillin anaphylaxis. Ketoconazole is an
antifungal and does not possess cross-sensitivity to penicillin. Kanamycin is an
aminoglycoside and does not possess cross-sensitivity to penicillin.
3. An adult patient has a history of rheumatic fever. Which of the following medications
should be administered as prophylaxis for rheumatic fever?
A) Cyclacillin (Cyclapen)
B) Amoxicillin (Augmentin)
C) Dicloxacillin
D) Penicillin G benzathine (Bicillin LA)
Ans: D
Feedback:
Penicillin G benzathine (Bicillin LA) is administered as prophylaxis for rheumatic fever.
Cyclacillin, amoxicillin, and dicloxacillin are not routinely administered for prophylaxis
of rheumatic fever.
4. A patient has been prescribed an oral penicillin for an infection caused by gram-negative
bacilli. When conducting health education for this patient, the nurse should emphasize
which of the following?
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B) The fact that a mild rash frequently follows the first few doses
C) The need to increase fluid intake for the duration of treatment
D) The fact that the drug should be discontinued once symptoms subside
Ans: A
Feedback:
Most penicillins should be best taken on an empty stomach. Increased fluid intake is not
normally necessary. A rash is an unexpected finding that should be reported promptly.
The patient should take the full course of antibiotics.
5. Unasyn is being administered to a patient with an infection caused by Staphylococcus
aureus. What type of anti-infective is Unasyn?
A) Extended-spectrum antipseudomonal penicillin
B) Penicillin–beta-lactamase inhibitor combination
C) Cephalosporin
D) Aminopenicillin
Ans: B
Feedback:
Unasyn is a penicillin–beta-lactamase inhibitor combination. It is ampicillin and
sulbactam. Unasyn is not classified as an extended-spectrum antipseudomonal
penicillin, cephalosporin, or aminopenicillin.
6. A patient is administered Augmentin (amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium) to treat
otitis media. How does a beta-lactamase inhibitor agent achieve a therapeutic effect?
A) It extends the spectrum of antibacterial activity of penicillin.
B) It extends the spectrum of the beta-lactamase inhibitor.
C) It decreases the side effects of high-dose penicillin.
D) It increases the absorption of the penicillin.
Ans: A
Feedback:
When combined with a penicillin, the beta-lactamase inhibitor protects the penicillin
from destruction by the enzymes and extends the penicillin's spectrum of antimicrobial
activity. Augmentin does not extend the spectrum of beta-lactamase inhibitor.
Augmentin does not decrease the side effects of high-dose penicillin. Augmentin does
not increase the absorption of penicillin.
7. A patient is administered a third-generation cephalosporin. Which of the following
microorganisms are cephalosporins most effective in treating?
A) Gram-positive
B) Gram-negative
C) Fungi
D) Virus
Ans: B
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Cephalosporins are broad-spectrum agents with activity against both gram-positive and
gram-negative bacteria. Compared with penicillins, they are, in general, less active
against gram-positive organisms but more active against gram-negative ones.
Cephalosporins are not effective against fungi or viruses.
8. A patient is diagnosed with infective endocarditis. Which of the following medications
is most effective in treating this patient?
A) Dicloxacillin
B) Ampicillin
C) Nafcillin
D) Oxacillin
Ans: B
Feedback:
Health care providers use ampicillin in the treatment or prophylaxis of infective
endocarditis. Dicloxacillin, nafcillin, and oxacillin are typically used to treat methicillin-
resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
9. A patient with septicemia is administered cefotaxime sodium (Claforan), a second-
generation cephalosporin. How is this medication excreted?
A) It is excreted by the lungs.
B) It is excreted by the liver.
C) It is excreted by the kidneys.
D) It is excreted through the GI tract.
Ans: C
Feedback:
Cefotaxime sodium, like all cephalosporins, is excreted by the kidneys. Cefotaxime is
not excreted by the lungs, liver, or GI tract.
10. A patient is scheduled for a vaginal hysterectomy. Which of the following medications
is the drug of choice for surgical prophylaxis?
A) Cefadroxil (Duricef)
B) Cefazolin sodium (Ancef)
C) Cephalexin (Keflex)
D) Cephradine (Velosef)
Ans: B
Feedback:
Cefazolin sodium (Ancef) is the drug of choice for surgical prophylaxis in most surgical
procedures. Cefadroxil, cephalexin, and cephradine are all first-generation
cephalosporins, but they are not utilized as the drug of choice for surgical prophylaxis.
11. A patient is diagnosed with B. fragilis, an anaerobic organism resistant to most drugs.
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A) Cefaclor (Ceclor)
B) Cefamandole nafate (Mandol)
C) Cefoxitin (Mefoxin)
D) Cefuroxime sodium (Zinacef)
Ans: C
Feedback:
Cefoxitin (Mefoxin) is active against B. fragilis, an anaerobic organism resistant to most
drugs. Cefaclor, cefamandole nafate, and cefuroxime sodium are all second-generation
cephalosporins but not the drug of choice for B. fragilis.
12. A patient is to receive imipenem–cilastatin (Primaxin) IM to treat P. aeruginosa. What
should imipenem–cilastatin be mixed with prior to administering intramuscularly?
A) Meropenem (Merrem)
B) Gentamicin (Garamycin)
C) Lidocaine
D) Epinephrine
Ans: C
Feedback:
When preparing imipenem–cilastatin for IM injection, lidocaine is added to decrease
pain. Meropenem, gentamicin, and epinephrine are not added to imipenem–cilastatin.
13. A patient is administered imipenem–cilastatin for the treatment of an E. coli infection.
The nurse should be aware that cilastatin is combined with the imipenem for what
purpose?
A) To eliminate adverse effects of imipenem administration
B) To inhibit the destruction of imipenem
C) To potentiate the therapeutic effects of imipenem
D) To allow imipenem to cross the blood–brain barrier
Ans: B
Feedback:
Cilastatin inhibits the destruction of imipenem, increasing the urinary concentration of
imipenem and reducing its potential renal toxicity. It does not allow the drug to cross the
blood–brain barrier, and cilastatin does not eliminate all adverse effects.
14. A patient is administered aztreonam (Azactam). What is the major advantage of this
monobactam over the aminoglycosides in treating P. aeruginosa?
A) It is a lower-cost medication.
B) It is administered orally.
C) It causes less GI distress.
D) It has lower risk for hearing loss.
Ans: D
Feedback:
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the drug does not cause kidney damage or hearing loss. Aztreonam is not a lower-cost
medication. Aztreonam is not administered orally. Aztreonam does not cause less GI
upset.
15. A 71-year-old man with a history of osteoarthritis is scheduled for hip replacement
surgery, and the surgeon has ordered a first-generation cephalosporin to be administered
before and after surgery as prophylaxis. Which of the following drugs is a first-
generation cephalosporin?
A) Cefotetan (Cefotan)
B) Cefoxitin (Mefoxin)
C) Ceftriaxone (Rocephin)
D) Cefazolin (Ancef)
Ans: D
Feedback:
Cefazolin (Ancef) is a first-generation cephalosporin. Cefotetan (Cefotan) and cefoxitin
(Mefoxin) belong to the second generation, and ceftriaxone (Rocephin) is a third-
generation cephalosporin.
16. Oral ampicillin has been ordered for a female patient whose urinary tract infection will
be treated in a home setting. When teaching this patient about her antibiotic, the nurse
should instruct the patient to do which of the following?
A) Take the first dose together with diphenhydramine to reduce the chance of an allergic
reaction.
B) Take the drug immediately before a meal, unless the meal will contain large amounts of
fat.
C) Drink a full glass of water when taking a dose of the drug.
D) Taper off the drug rather than abruptly stopping it.
Ans: C
Feedback:
Patients taking penicillins should take oral doses with a full glass of water. The drugs
should otherwise be taken on an empty stomach. Tapering is unnecessary, and it is not
advised to take the drug with diphenhydramine in an effort to reduce the allergy risk.
17. An older adult patient has just been diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia and
aztreonam (Azactam) has been ordered. What action should the nurse perform before
administering the first dose?
A) Administer a 500 mL bolus of normal saline.
B) Confirm the patient's allergy status.
C) Swab the patient's nares for the presence of MRSA.
D) Teach the patient to expect discolored urine during treatment.
Ans: B
Feedback:
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administration. This is especially important before the initial dose. An IV bolus is
unnecessary, and discoloration of urine is not expected. MRSA testing is not relevant to
aztreonam administration.
18. An intensive care unit (ICU) nurse is preparing to administer an intravenous dose of
imipenem–cilastatin to a patient who is being treated for sepsis. What aspect of this
patient's history would contraindicate the use of this drug?
A) The patient has a history of type 1 diabetes mellitus.
B) The patient is showing signs and symptoms of fluid volume excess.
C) The patient's most recent creatinine level was 140 mol/L (high).
D) The patient has a documented allergy to penicillin.
Ans: D
Feedback:
It is important to avoid administering imipenem–cilastatin and the other carbapenems to
people with life-threatening allergic reactions to penicillin. Diabetes, slightly increased
creatinine levels, and fluid overload do not necessarily contraindicate the use of
imipenem–cilastatin.
19. A nurse has established intravenous access in a patient whose infection necessitates
treatment with IV cefazolin. What potential adverse reaction is most likely during this
patient's course of treat?
A) Gastrointestinal upset
B) Dry skin and pruritus
C) Drowsiness
D) Orthostatic hypotension
Ans: A
Feedback:
Adverse effects to cefazolin and the other cephalosporins are similar to those of most
other antibiotics: abdominal pain, diarrhea, gastritis, nausea, and vomiting.
Integumentary, neurological, and blood pressure changes are atypical.
20. A 69-year-old female responded well to inpatient treatment with a third-generation
cephalosporin. After being largely symptom free for 48 hours, the woman has developed
a fever of 38.6°C and an elevated white cell count. What phenomenon may account for
this patient's current clinical presentation?
A) The patient may be infected with microorganisms that were resistant to the
cephalosporin.
B) The patient may be experiencing a delayed (type IV) hypersensitivity reaction to the
cephalosporin.
C) The patient may be developing glomerulonephritis secondary to the nephrotoxic
cephalosporin.
D) The cephalosporin may have initially caused leukopenia and made the patient susceptible
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Ans: A
Feedback:
Patients treated with cephalosporins may be vulnerable to superinfections (infection
after a previous infection, typically caused by microorganisms that are resistant to the
antibiotics used earlier). Delayed hypersensitivity and renal involvement are highly
unlikely. Antibiotics do not cause leukopenia.
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and is placed on isolation. Which of the following medications is the drug of choice for
Legionnaires' disease?
A) Erythromycin (Ery-Tab)
B) Loxapine hydrochloride (Loxitane)
C) Meclizine (Antivert)
D) Pravastatin (Pravachol)
Ans: A
Feedback:
Erythromycin is the prototype macrolide used to treat Legionnaires' disease. Loxapine
hydrochloride is an antipsychotic agent. Meclizine (Antivert) is used to treat nausea and
dizziness. Pravastatin is used to treat hypercholesterolemia.
2. The nurse is administering telithromycin (Ketek) to a child with Streptococcus
pneumoniae infection. What nursing intervention is implemented when administering
this medication?
A) Administer the medication with or without food.
B) Administer the medication with grapefruit juice.
C) Increase the dose in the event of QT elongation.
D) Administer the medication with lovastatin.
Ans: A
Feedback:
When administering telithromycin, food does not affect the absorption of the
medication. The administration of the medication with grapefruit juice may increase the
plasma concentration and cause adverse effects. Telithromycin can cause an elongation
of the QT interval; thus, the dose should not be increased. The administration of
telithromycin and lovastatin can cause an increase in the QT interval.
3. A patient is allergic to penicillin and has been diagnosed with a genitourinary infection
caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. Which of the following medications will most likely
be administered?
A) Acamprosate calcium (Campral)
B) Atazanavir (Reyataz)
C) Erythromycin (Ery-Tab)
D) Flumazenil (Mazicon)
Ans: C
Feedback:
A patient who is diagnosed with a genitourinary infection that is caused by trachomatis
and who is allergic to penicillin should be administered erythromycin (Ery-Tab).
Acamprosate calcium is administered as a substance abuse deterrent, not in place of
penicillin. Atazanavir (Reyataz) is an antiviral agent that is used to treat HIV infection,
not Chlamydia trachomatis. Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist and not used for
Chlamydia trachomatis.
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(Biaxin). Which of the following organisms is this medication used to treat?
A) Streptococcus pneumoniae
B) Haemophilus influenzae
C) Mycobacterium avium complex
D) Helicobacter pylori
Ans: D
Feedback:
Clarithromycin is approved to treat H. pylori infections associated with peptic ulcer
disease. Clarithromycin is also approved to treat Streptococcus pneumoniae,
Haemophilus influenza, and Mycobacterium avium complex, but these organisms do not
cause peptic ulcer disease.
5. A patient is administered telithromycin (Ketek) to treat a community-acquired
pneumonia. A change in what blood level may necessitate a reduction in the dosage?
A) Creatinine
B) AST and ALT
C) CPK
D) Differential
Ans: A
Feedback:
For patients who have renal impairment, together with hepatic impairment, it is essential
to reduce the dosage to 400 mg once daily. Alterations in CPK, white cell differential,
and liver enzymes may not require a change in the dosage.
6. A patient has been prescribed chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin) for vancomycin-
resistant enterococci. How is this medication eliminated from the body?
A) Through the liver
B) Exhaled through the lungs
C) Excreted in the urine
D) Excreted in the bile
Ans: C
Feedback:
Chloramphenicol is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine. It is not
eliminated in the liver, exhaled through the lungs, or excreted in the bile.
7. Which of the following miscellaneous antibacterial drugs is administered topically in
the treatment of acne?
A) Chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin)
B) Clindamycin (Cleocin)
C) Daptomycin (Cubicin)
D) Tigecycline (Tygacil)
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