NSG 124 Pharmacology Midterm Exam Prep Document |
2026/2027 Edition | 200 Verified Questions - 160 Questions
with Answers
NSG 124 Pharmacology Midterm Exam 2026-160 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ALREADY GRADED A+. 100%
Verified Solutions | Updated Per Latest Guidelines | Graded A+
This comprehensive exam preparation guide for NSG 124 Pharmacology covers all major topics in the
nursing pharmacology curriculum, including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, drug
classifications, and safe medication administration. With 200 verified questions and detailed rationales,
this resource is designed to reinforce critical concepts and ensure success on the midterm exam. Each
question is aligned with current nursing standards and evidence-based practice, providing a thorough
review of essential pharmacological principles. Ideal for nursing students seeking a high-yield,
exam-focused study tool.
Key Features:
Introduction to Pharmacology: Drug regulation, drug names, and pharmacokinetic principles (absorption,
distribution, metabolism, excretion)
Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacotherapeutics: Mechanisms of action, dose-response relationships, and
therapeutic drug monitoring
Medication Administration and Safety: Routes, calculations, and error prevention strategies
Autonomic Nervous System Drugs: Cholinergic and adrenergic agonists/antagonists
Cardiovascular Drugs: Antihypertensives, antiarrhythmics, cardiac glycosides, and lipid-lowering agents
Respiratory Drugs: Bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antihistamines
Gastrointestinal Drugs: Antacids, antiemetics, laxatives, and antidiarrheals
Endocrine Drugs: Insulin, oral hypoglycemics, thyroid medications, and corticosteroids
Neurological and Psychiatric Drugs: Anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anxiolytics
Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Opioids, NSAIDs, and acetaminophen
Antimicrobial Drugs: Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antitubercular agents
Chemotherapy and Immunomodulators: Antineoplastic agents and immunosuppressants
Special Populations: Pediatric, geriatric, pregnancy, and lactation considerations
Herbal and Dietary Supplements: Interactions and nursing implications
Updates for 2026:
- Updated to reflect 2026-2027 nursing pharmacology guidelines and standards
- Revised rationales to incorporate latest evidence-based practice
- Added new questions on recently approved drugs and their nursing considerations
- Enhanced coverage of medication safety and error prevention protocols
- Aligned with current NCLEX-RN test plan and nursing curriculum requirements
Abstract:
This exam preparation document for NSG 124 Pharmacology provides a comprehensive review of
pharmacological principles and nursing implications essential for safe and effective medication administration.
The content is organized into major therapeutic classifications, covering mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses,
adverse effects, and nursing interventions. Each of the 200 verified questions includes detailed rationales that
explain both correct and incorrect options, facilitating deeper understanding and critical thinking. The material is
updated to reflect the latest guidelines and best practices, ensuring relevance for the 2026-2027 academic year.
This resource serves as an invaluable tool for nursing students aiming to excel in their pharmacology midterm and
Page 1
,build a solid foundation for clinical practice.
Keywords:
NSG 124, Pharmacology, Nursing exam prep, Medication administration, Drug classifications, NCLEX-style
questions, Rationales, 2026-2027
Answer Format:
Each question is presented in multiple-choice format with four options. The correct answer is clearly indicated,
followed by a detailed rationale explaining why it is correct and why the other options are incorrect. Rationales
include pharmacological concepts, nursing considerations, and clinical application to reinforce learning.
Compliance Checklist:
All questions align with the NSG 124 course objectives and syllabus
Rationales are evidence-based and referenced to current pharmacology textbooks
Content reflects the latest NCLEX-RN test plan and safety guidelines
Questions cover all major drug classifications and nursing implications
Updated for the 2026-2027 academic year
Verified for accuracy and completeness by nursing faculty
Content Area Overview:
Content Area Questions Key Topics Weight
Foundations of Pharmacology 1-20 Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Drug 10%
Regulation, Medication Administration
Autonomic Nervous System 21-40 Cholinergic Agonists/Antagonists, 10%
Drugs Adrenergic Agonists/Antagonists
Cardiovascular Drugs 41-70 Antihypertensives, Antiarrhythmics, Cardiac 15%
Glycosides, Lipid-Lowering Agents
Respiratory Drugs 71-90 Bronchodilators, Corticosteroids, 10%
Antihistamines, Decongestants
Gastrointestinal Drugs 91-110 Antacids, Antiemetics, Laxatives, 10%
Antidiarrheals
Endocrine Drugs 111-130 Insulin, Oral Hypoglycemics, Thyroid 10%
Medications, Corticosteroids
Neurological and Psychiatric 131-150 Anticonvulsants, Antipsychotics, 10%
Drugs Antidepressants, Anxiolytics
Analgesics and 151-170 Opioids, NSAIDs, Acetaminophen, Gout 10%
Anti-inflammatory Drugs Medications
Antimicrobial Drugs 171-190 Antibiotics, Antivirals, Antifungals, 10%
Antitubercular Agents
Special Populations and 191-200 Pediatric/Geriatric Considerations, Herbal 5%
Miscellaneous Supplements, Immunomodulators
Page 2
,Q1. A patient with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (eGFR 25 mL/min) is
prescribed metformin. The provider orders a CT scan with IV contrast. Which action
is most appropriate?
A. Continue metformin and proceed with the CT scan
B. Hold metformin before the CT scan and resume 48 hours after if renal function is
stable
C. Reduce the metformin dose by half for 24 hours before and after the CT scan
D. Switch metformin to insulin permanently due to the renal impairment
Correct Answer: B. Hold metformin before the CT scan and resume 48 hours after if
renal function is stable
Rationale: Metformin is contraindicated in patients with eGFR <30 mL/min and should be
temporarily withheld at the time of iodinated contrast administration due to the risk of
contrast-induced nephropathy and lactic acidosis. The drug should be held before the
procedure and resumed 48 hours later only if renal function has not deteriorated.
Continuing or merely reducing the dose is unsafe. Permanent insulin switch is not
indicated solely for a single contrast exposure.
Why Wrong:
A - Continuing metformin during contrast administration in a patient with eGFR 25
mL/min significantly increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
C - Dose reduction does not eliminate the risk; the drug must be held entirely around
contrast exposure.
D - Insulin is not automatically required; metformin can be resumed after confirming
stable renal function.
Reference: Lehne, R.A. (2026). Pharmacology for Nursing Care, 12th ed., Ch. 52
(Antidiabetic Drugs)
Q2. Which statement accurately describes the mechanism of action of SSRIs in the
treatment of depression?
A. They irreversibly inhibit monoamine oxidase, increasing norepinephrine and
serotonin in the synapse.
B. They block the reuptake of serotonin into the presynaptic neuron, leading to
increased serotonin in the synaptic cleft.
C. They antagonize serotonin receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, reducing serotonin
activity.
D. They stimulate the release of serotonin from presynaptic vesicles, resulting in
immediate mood elevation.
Correct Answer: B. They block the reuptake of serotonin into the presynaptic neuron,
leading to increased serotonin in the synaptic cleft.
Page 3
, Rationale: SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) selectively block the serotonin transporter
(SERT) on the presynaptic neuron, preventing reuptake and increasing synaptic serotonin
levels. This is a selective, reversible blockade, not an irreversible enzyme inhibition
(MAOIs), receptor antagonism, or direct vesicular release.
Why Wrong:
A - Irreversible MAO inhibition is the mechanism of MAOIs, not SSRIs.
C - Antagonizing serotonin receptors would decrease serotonin activity, opposite of
the therapeutic effect.
D - SSRIs do not cause direct vesicular release; they modulate reuptake, and mood
improvement takes weeks.
Reference: Lehne, R.A. (2026). Pharmacology for Nursing Care, 12th ed., Ch. 16
(Antidepressants)
Q3. A patient is receiving a continuous intravenous infusion of heparin for a
pulmonary embolism. The aPTT is 110 seconds (therapeutic range 60-80 seconds).
Which action should the nurse take?
A. Continue the current infusion rate and recheck aPTT in 6 hours
B. Stop the infusion and administer protamine sulfate
C. Decrease the infusion rate per protocol and recheck aPTT in 4-6 hours
D. Administer a bolus of heparin and increase the infusion rate
Correct Answer: C. Decrease the infusion rate per protocol and recheck aPTT in 4-6
hours
Rationale: An aPTT of 110 seconds is supratherapeutic, indicating an increased bleeding
risk. The infusion should be decreased according to the institutional heparin nomogram,
and the aPTT should be rechecked in 4-6 hours. Continuing the same rate could lead to
hemorrhage. Stopping and giving protamine is reserved for severe bleeding. Administering
a bolus would worsen the situation.
Why Wrong:
A - Continuing the same rate with a supratherapeutic aPTT is unsafe and delays
necessary dose adjustment.
B - Protamine is indicated for major bleeding, not simply an elevated aPTT without
signs of bleeding.
D - A bolus and increased rate would further elevate the aPTT, increasing bleeding
risk.
Reference: Lehne, R.A. (2026). Pharmacology for Nursing Care, 12th ed., Ch. 35
(Anticoagulants)
Q4. A patient with chronic stable angina is prescribed nitroglycerin sublingual
tablets. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in patient
education?
Page 4
2026/2027 Edition | 200 Verified Questions - 160 Questions
with Answers
NSG 124 Pharmacology Midterm Exam 2026-160 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ALREADY GRADED A+. 100%
Verified Solutions | Updated Per Latest Guidelines | Graded A+
This comprehensive exam preparation guide for NSG 124 Pharmacology covers all major topics in the
nursing pharmacology curriculum, including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, drug
classifications, and safe medication administration. With 200 verified questions and detailed rationales,
this resource is designed to reinforce critical concepts and ensure success on the midterm exam. Each
question is aligned with current nursing standards and evidence-based practice, providing a thorough
review of essential pharmacological principles. Ideal for nursing students seeking a high-yield,
exam-focused study tool.
Key Features:
Introduction to Pharmacology: Drug regulation, drug names, and pharmacokinetic principles (absorption,
distribution, metabolism, excretion)
Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacotherapeutics: Mechanisms of action, dose-response relationships, and
therapeutic drug monitoring
Medication Administration and Safety: Routes, calculations, and error prevention strategies
Autonomic Nervous System Drugs: Cholinergic and adrenergic agonists/antagonists
Cardiovascular Drugs: Antihypertensives, antiarrhythmics, cardiac glycosides, and lipid-lowering agents
Respiratory Drugs: Bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antihistamines
Gastrointestinal Drugs: Antacids, antiemetics, laxatives, and antidiarrheals
Endocrine Drugs: Insulin, oral hypoglycemics, thyroid medications, and corticosteroids
Neurological and Psychiatric Drugs: Anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anxiolytics
Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Opioids, NSAIDs, and acetaminophen
Antimicrobial Drugs: Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antitubercular agents
Chemotherapy and Immunomodulators: Antineoplastic agents and immunosuppressants
Special Populations: Pediatric, geriatric, pregnancy, and lactation considerations
Herbal and Dietary Supplements: Interactions and nursing implications
Updates for 2026:
- Updated to reflect 2026-2027 nursing pharmacology guidelines and standards
- Revised rationales to incorporate latest evidence-based practice
- Added new questions on recently approved drugs and their nursing considerations
- Enhanced coverage of medication safety and error prevention protocols
- Aligned with current NCLEX-RN test plan and nursing curriculum requirements
Abstract:
This exam preparation document for NSG 124 Pharmacology provides a comprehensive review of
pharmacological principles and nursing implications essential for safe and effective medication administration.
The content is organized into major therapeutic classifications, covering mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses,
adverse effects, and nursing interventions. Each of the 200 verified questions includes detailed rationales that
explain both correct and incorrect options, facilitating deeper understanding and critical thinking. The material is
updated to reflect the latest guidelines and best practices, ensuring relevance for the 2026-2027 academic year.
This resource serves as an invaluable tool for nursing students aiming to excel in their pharmacology midterm and
Page 1
,build a solid foundation for clinical practice.
Keywords:
NSG 124, Pharmacology, Nursing exam prep, Medication administration, Drug classifications, NCLEX-style
questions, Rationales, 2026-2027
Answer Format:
Each question is presented in multiple-choice format with four options. The correct answer is clearly indicated,
followed by a detailed rationale explaining why it is correct and why the other options are incorrect. Rationales
include pharmacological concepts, nursing considerations, and clinical application to reinforce learning.
Compliance Checklist:
All questions align with the NSG 124 course objectives and syllabus
Rationales are evidence-based and referenced to current pharmacology textbooks
Content reflects the latest NCLEX-RN test plan and safety guidelines
Questions cover all major drug classifications and nursing implications
Updated for the 2026-2027 academic year
Verified for accuracy and completeness by nursing faculty
Content Area Overview:
Content Area Questions Key Topics Weight
Foundations of Pharmacology 1-20 Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Drug 10%
Regulation, Medication Administration
Autonomic Nervous System 21-40 Cholinergic Agonists/Antagonists, 10%
Drugs Adrenergic Agonists/Antagonists
Cardiovascular Drugs 41-70 Antihypertensives, Antiarrhythmics, Cardiac 15%
Glycosides, Lipid-Lowering Agents
Respiratory Drugs 71-90 Bronchodilators, Corticosteroids, 10%
Antihistamines, Decongestants
Gastrointestinal Drugs 91-110 Antacids, Antiemetics, Laxatives, 10%
Antidiarrheals
Endocrine Drugs 111-130 Insulin, Oral Hypoglycemics, Thyroid 10%
Medications, Corticosteroids
Neurological and Psychiatric 131-150 Anticonvulsants, Antipsychotics, 10%
Drugs Antidepressants, Anxiolytics
Analgesics and 151-170 Opioids, NSAIDs, Acetaminophen, Gout 10%
Anti-inflammatory Drugs Medications
Antimicrobial Drugs 171-190 Antibiotics, Antivirals, Antifungals, 10%
Antitubercular Agents
Special Populations and 191-200 Pediatric/Geriatric Considerations, Herbal 5%
Miscellaneous Supplements, Immunomodulators
Page 2
,Q1. A patient with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (eGFR 25 mL/min) is
prescribed metformin. The provider orders a CT scan with IV contrast. Which action
is most appropriate?
A. Continue metformin and proceed with the CT scan
B. Hold metformin before the CT scan and resume 48 hours after if renal function is
stable
C. Reduce the metformin dose by half for 24 hours before and after the CT scan
D. Switch metformin to insulin permanently due to the renal impairment
Correct Answer: B. Hold metformin before the CT scan and resume 48 hours after if
renal function is stable
Rationale: Metformin is contraindicated in patients with eGFR <30 mL/min and should be
temporarily withheld at the time of iodinated contrast administration due to the risk of
contrast-induced nephropathy and lactic acidosis. The drug should be held before the
procedure and resumed 48 hours later only if renal function has not deteriorated.
Continuing or merely reducing the dose is unsafe. Permanent insulin switch is not
indicated solely for a single contrast exposure.
Why Wrong:
A - Continuing metformin during contrast administration in a patient with eGFR 25
mL/min significantly increases the risk of lactic acidosis.
C - Dose reduction does not eliminate the risk; the drug must be held entirely around
contrast exposure.
D - Insulin is not automatically required; metformin can be resumed after confirming
stable renal function.
Reference: Lehne, R.A. (2026). Pharmacology for Nursing Care, 12th ed., Ch. 52
(Antidiabetic Drugs)
Q2. Which statement accurately describes the mechanism of action of SSRIs in the
treatment of depression?
A. They irreversibly inhibit monoamine oxidase, increasing norepinephrine and
serotonin in the synapse.
B. They block the reuptake of serotonin into the presynaptic neuron, leading to
increased serotonin in the synaptic cleft.
C. They antagonize serotonin receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, reducing serotonin
activity.
D. They stimulate the release of serotonin from presynaptic vesicles, resulting in
immediate mood elevation.
Correct Answer: B. They block the reuptake of serotonin into the presynaptic neuron,
leading to increased serotonin in the synaptic cleft.
Page 3
, Rationale: SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) selectively block the serotonin transporter
(SERT) on the presynaptic neuron, preventing reuptake and increasing synaptic serotonin
levels. This is a selective, reversible blockade, not an irreversible enzyme inhibition
(MAOIs), receptor antagonism, or direct vesicular release.
Why Wrong:
A - Irreversible MAO inhibition is the mechanism of MAOIs, not SSRIs.
C - Antagonizing serotonin receptors would decrease serotonin activity, opposite of
the therapeutic effect.
D - SSRIs do not cause direct vesicular release; they modulate reuptake, and mood
improvement takes weeks.
Reference: Lehne, R.A. (2026). Pharmacology for Nursing Care, 12th ed., Ch. 16
(Antidepressants)
Q3. A patient is receiving a continuous intravenous infusion of heparin for a
pulmonary embolism. The aPTT is 110 seconds (therapeutic range 60-80 seconds).
Which action should the nurse take?
A. Continue the current infusion rate and recheck aPTT in 6 hours
B. Stop the infusion and administer protamine sulfate
C. Decrease the infusion rate per protocol and recheck aPTT in 4-6 hours
D. Administer a bolus of heparin and increase the infusion rate
Correct Answer: C. Decrease the infusion rate per protocol and recheck aPTT in 4-6
hours
Rationale: An aPTT of 110 seconds is supratherapeutic, indicating an increased bleeding
risk. The infusion should be decreased according to the institutional heparin nomogram,
and the aPTT should be rechecked in 4-6 hours. Continuing the same rate could lead to
hemorrhage. Stopping and giving protamine is reserved for severe bleeding. Administering
a bolus would worsen the situation.
Why Wrong:
A - Continuing the same rate with a supratherapeutic aPTT is unsafe and delays
necessary dose adjustment.
B - Protamine is indicated for major bleeding, not simply an elevated aPTT without
signs of bleeding.
D - A bolus and increased rate would further elevate the aPTT, increasing bleeding
risk.
Reference: Lehne, R.A. (2026). Pharmacology for Nursing Care, 12th ed., Ch. 35
(Anticoagulants)
Q4. A patient with chronic stable angina is prescribed nitroglycerin sublingual
tablets. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in patient
education?
Page 4
