SPRING TERM |COMPLETE WITH ANSWERS
SECTION 1: AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM PHARMACOLOGY
Question 1
A patient has been prescribed a beta-blocker for hypertension. Which statement
about beta-adrenergic receptor activity is correct?
A) Beta-1 receptors are primarily located in bronchial smooth muscle
B) Beta-1 receptors increase heart rate and contractility when stimulated
C) Beta-2 receptors are located primarily in cardiac tissue
D) Beta-2 receptor stimulation causes vasoconstriction
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Beta-1 receptors are located in the heart and increase heart rate and
contractility. Beta-2 receptors are located in bronchial smooth muscle, uterus, and
blood vessels; stimulation causes bronchodilation and vasodilation. The
sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response.
Question 2
A nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving a cholinergic agonist for urinary
retention. This medication works by:
A) Blocking parasympathetic receptors
B) Stimulating parasympathetic receptors to increase bladder contraction
C) Activating the sympathetic nervous system
D) Inhibiting acetylcholinesterase
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Cholinergic agonists stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system,
which promotes "rest and digest" functions. Bethanechol (Urecholine) is used to
,increase detrusor muscle tone and promote bladder contractions in patients with
urinary retention.
Question 3
A patient has been taking an alpha-1 antagonist for benign prostatic hyperplasia
(BPH). Which side effect should the nurse monitor for?
A) Tachycardia
B) Orthostatic hypotension
C) Urinary retention
D) Hypertension
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Alpha-1 antagonists (e.g., tamsulosin/Flomax) block alpha-1 receptors
in the prostate and bladder neck, improving urine flow. They also block vascular
alpha-1 receptors, causing vasodilation and orthostatic hypotension. Patients
should be advised to change positions slowly and monitor blood pressure.
Question 4
Which medication is an alpha-2 agonist used to treat hypertension?
A) Tamsulosin
B) Clonidine
C) Metoprolol
D) Albuterol
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Alpha-2 agonists work in the central nervous system to reduce
sympathetic outflow, lowering heart rate and blood pressure. Clonidine is
commonly used for hypertension. It decreases central sympathetic outflow, leading
to vasodilation.
, Question 5
The parasympathetic nervous system is characterized by which of the following?
A) Rest and digest functions
B) Fight or flight responses
C) Increased heart rate
D) Bronchodilation
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The parasympathetic nervous system is the "rest and digest" system. It
slows the heartbeat, decreases respiratory rate, stimulates digestion, and
conserves energy. It uses cholinergic neurons.
Question 6
Which medication is used for its anti-inflammatory effects in allergic rhinitis?
A) Antihistamines only
B) Decongestants only
C) Intranasal corticosteroids
D) Leukotriene receptor antagonists
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Intranasal corticosteroids are effective for allergic rhinitis due to their
anti-inflammatory properties. First-generation antihistamines and decongestants
are often used for symptom relief, but corticosteroids address the underlying
inflammatory process. Intranasal H1 antihistamines may also be used.
SECTION 2: PHARMACOKINETICS & PHARMACODYNAMICS
Question 7
Federal legislation dictates a lengthy and rigorous process of testing for new
drugs. What is the primary purpose of this testing process?