QMA Ivy Tech Community College Practice Test | 2026/2027 Page 1
QMA IVYTECH COMMUNITY COLLEGE PRACTICE
TEST QUESTIONS
WITH COMPLETE SOLUTIONS 2026/2027
A Comprehensive 120-Question Practice Examination for Qualified Medication Aide Certification
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Training Standards • Ivy Tech HLHS 117 QMA Preparation Course
Curriculum • QMA-Insulin Administration Module • 2026/2027 ISMP & CMS Medication Safety Standards
Total Questions Sections Cognitive Mix Question Style
25% Recall
70% Scenario-Based
120 6 50% Application
30% Direct Knowledge
25% Analysis
Section 1: Medication Fundamentals
Terminology, Abbreviations, Routes, Dosage Calculations, and Medication Orders
Q1: A medication order reads: "Digoxin 0.25 mg PO daily." The abbreviation "PO" in this order indicates
which route of administration?
A. By injection
B. By mouth *[CORRECT]*
C. Under the tongue
D. Through the skin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: PO is the standard abbreviation for "per os" or "by mouth," identifying the oral route of medication administration.
Ivy Tech HLHS 117 QMA curriculum requires mastery of route abbreviations because the right route is one of the Six Rights of
medication administration, and a misinterpreted route can cause serious patient harm.
Q2: A resident's order states: "Acetaminophen 650 mg PO q6h PRN for pain." The abbreviation "PRN"
means the medication should be given:
A. Every six hours around the clock
B. Only when the resident requests it for pain, within the ordered interval *[CORRECT]*
C. Before meals only
D. Once at bedtime
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: PRN stands for "pro re nata," meaning "as needed." Per Indiana State Department of Health QMA scope of practice,
PRN medications require a licensed nurse's assessment before the QMA administers them, ensuring clinical justification for each
dose. The q6h interval sets the minimum time between PRN doses.
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Standards | Ivy Tech HLHS 117 Curriculum
,QMA Ivy Tech Community College Practice Test | 2026/2027 Page 2
Q3: Which abbreviation indicates that a medication should be administered twice a day?
A. qd
B. bid *[CORRECT]*
C. tid
D. qid
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: bid (bis in die) means twice daily, while qd is daily, tid is three times daily, and qid is four times daily. ISMP and the
Ivy Tech QMA curriculum emphasize that look-alike/sound-alike abbreviations such as qd vs qid are high-risk for medication
errors, so QMAs must verify frequency abbreviations against the full medication order.
Q4: A physician orders: "Furosemide 40 mg PO qAM." The medication should be administered:
A. Every evening
B. Every morning *[CORRECT]*
C. Every other day
D. As needed
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: qAM means "every morning." Timing abbreviations are part of the right time component of the Six Rights. Per
Indiana QMA training standards, QMAs must recognize schedule abbreviations and verify that medications are given within the
facility's designated time window (typically ± 1 hour for routine medications).
Q5: The physician orders 750 mg of a medication. The pharmacy dispenses 250 mg tablets. Using the formula
Dose Ordered / Dose On Hand × Quantity = Amount to Administer, how many tablets should the QMA
administer?
A. 1 tablet
B. 2 tablets
C. 3 tablets *[CORRECT]*
D. 4 tablets
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: 750 mg / 250 mg × 1 tablet = 3 tablets. The Desired/Available × Quantity formula is the dosage calculation method
taught in the Ivy Tech HLHS 117 QMA curriculum. QMAs in Indiana are responsible for calculating dosages from available
forms, and any calculation result that is not a whole tablet or measurable dose should be clarified with the licensed nurse or
pharmacist before administration.
Q6: A liquid medication order reads: "Amoxicillin suspension 500 mg PO." The bottle label states 250 mg/5
mL. How many mL should the QMA pour?
A. 5 mL
B. 10 mL *[CORRECT]*
C. 15 mL
D. 20 mL
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: 500 mg / 250 mg × 5 mL = 10 mL. Liquid dose calculation uses the same Desired/Available × Quantity formula. The
Ivy Tech QMA program requires QMAs to shake suspensions before pouring, use a calibrated medication cup or oral syringe,
and verify the concentration on the bottle against the medication order before administration.
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Standards | Ivy Tech HLHS 117 Curriculum
,QMA Ivy Tech Community College Practice Test | 2026/2027 Page 3
Q7: Using cross-multiplication, solve for x: 100 mg / 1 tablet = 200 mg / x tablets. The correct answer is:
A. 0.5 tablets
B. 1 tablet
C. 2 tablets *[CORRECT]*
D. 4 tablets
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Cross-multiplying: 100x = 200, so x = 2 tablets. Cross-multiplication is an alternative method taught in the Ivy Tech
QMA curriculum for verifying dosage calculations. QMAs should double-check calculations using a second method when results
seem unusual, and any fractional tablet dose (such as 1.5 tablets) requires verification that the tablet is scored and approved for
splitting.
Q8: A resident with a gastrostomy (G-tube) receives medications. The QMA should:
A. Crush enteric-coated tablets and dilute in water
B. Crush plain tablets, dissolve in liquid, and administer through the tube *[CORRECT]*
C. Give all medications together in one syringe to save time
D. Push pills whole through the tube
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Plain tablets may be crushed and dissolved in liquid for G-tube administration, but enteric-coated, extended-release,
and sublingual medications must NOT be crushed. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum teaches that each medication should be
administered separately with adequate water flushes between them to prevent tube clogging and drug interactions. Confirm
crushing appropriateness with the pharmacist or licensed nurse if unclear.
Q9: A resident has a jejunostomy (J-tube). Compared to a G-tube, medications given through a J-tube:
A. Are absorbed more slowly because the stomach is bypassed *[CORRECT]*
B. Should always be given as a rapid bolus push
C. Must be administered without any dilution
D. Require no special considerations
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The J-tube delivers medications directly into the jejunum (small intestine), bypassing the stomach's breakdown
process, which changes absorption rates and may require slower, more dilute administration. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum
covers enteral feeding routes, and QMAs must follow facility policy and licensed nurse direction regarding administration rate,
dilution, and medication compatibility with J-tube delivery.
Q10: Penicillin is derived from a living source (the mold Penicillium). This type of drug is classified as:
A. Synthetic drug
B. Semi-synthetic drug
C. Biological / natural source drug *[CORRECT]*
D. Chemical compound
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Drugs derived from living sources such as plants, animals, or microorganisms are classified as biological or natural
source drugs. Penicillin, derived from mold, is a classic example. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum distinguishes between natural
source, synthetic (created in a laboratory), and semi-synthetic drugs (modified natural source compounds). Understanding drug
origins helps QMAs recognize potential allergic reactions and storage requirements.
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Standards | Ivy Tech HLHS 117 Curriculum
, QMA Ivy Tech Community College Practice Test | 2026/2027 Page 4
Q11: A resident takes a prescribed antihistamine and experiences dry mouth and drowsiness. These effects
are best described as:
A. Allergic effects
B. Side effects *[CORRECT]*
C. Toxic effects
D. Cumulative effects
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Side effects are secondary, predictable, and typically mild reactions to a medication that occur at therapeutic doses,
such as dry mouth and drowsiness with antihistamines. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum distinguishes side effects (mild, expected)
from allergic effects (immune response), toxic effects (overdose-level harm), and cumulative effects (buildup from repeated
dosing). QMAs should document side effects and notify the licensed nurse.
Q12: A resident develops hives, itching, and shortness of breath shortly after receiving a dose of an antibiotic.
This reaction is best described as:
A. A side effect of the medication
B. An allergic reaction *[CORRECT]*
C. A cumulative effect of the medication
D. An expected therapeutic effect
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Hives, itching, and shortness of breath indicate an allergic reaction, which is an immune-mediated response to a
medication. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum and Indiana QMA scope require the QMA to immediately withhold further doses,
notify the licensed nurse, document the reaction, and be prepared to assist with emergency response. Allergic reactions can
progress to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening emergency.
Q13: A resident receives too high a dose of digoxin and develops nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances
(yellow halos). These symptoms represent:
A. Expected side effects
B. Allergic reactions
C. Toxic effects *[CORRECT]*
D. Cumulative effects
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Toxic effects occur when a medication accumulates to harmful levels, often due to excessive dosing or impaired
excretion. Digoxin toxicity presents with GI symptoms and visual disturbances such as yellow halos. Per Indiana QMA scope, the
QMA must immediately withhold the medication, notify the licensed nurse, and document findings. Toxic effects require prompt
medical evaluation.
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Standards | Ivy Tech HLHS 117 Curriculum
QMA IVYTECH COMMUNITY COLLEGE PRACTICE
TEST QUESTIONS
WITH COMPLETE SOLUTIONS 2026/2027
A Comprehensive 120-Question Practice Examination for Qualified Medication Aide Certification
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Training Standards • Ivy Tech HLHS 117 QMA Preparation Course
Curriculum • QMA-Insulin Administration Module • 2026/2027 ISMP & CMS Medication Safety Standards
Total Questions Sections Cognitive Mix Question Style
25% Recall
70% Scenario-Based
120 6 50% Application
30% Direct Knowledge
25% Analysis
Section 1: Medication Fundamentals
Terminology, Abbreviations, Routes, Dosage Calculations, and Medication Orders
Q1: A medication order reads: "Digoxin 0.25 mg PO daily." The abbreviation "PO" in this order indicates
which route of administration?
A. By injection
B. By mouth *[CORRECT]*
C. Under the tongue
D. Through the skin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: PO is the standard abbreviation for "per os" or "by mouth," identifying the oral route of medication administration.
Ivy Tech HLHS 117 QMA curriculum requires mastery of route abbreviations because the right route is one of the Six Rights of
medication administration, and a misinterpreted route can cause serious patient harm.
Q2: A resident's order states: "Acetaminophen 650 mg PO q6h PRN for pain." The abbreviation "PRN"
means the medication should be given:
A. Every six hours around the clock
B. Only when the resident requests it for pain, within the ordered interval *[CORRECT]*
C. Before meals only
D. Once at bedtime
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: PRN stands for "pro re nata," meaning "as needed." Per Indiana State Department of Health QMA scope of practice,
PRN medications require a licensed nurse's assessment before the QMA administers them, ensuring clinical justification for each
dose. The q6h interval sets the minimum time between PRN doses.
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Standards | Ivy Tech HLHS 117 Curriculum
,QMA Ivy Tech Community College Practice Test | 2026/2027 Page 2
Q3: Which abbreviation indicates that a medication should be administered twice a day?
A. qd
B. bid *[CORRECT]*
C. tid
D. qid
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: bid (bis in die) means twice daily, while qd is daily, tid is three times daily, and qid is four times daily. ISMP and the
Ivy Tech QMA curriculum emphasize that look-alike/sound-alike abbreviations such as qd vs qid are high-risk for medication
errors, so QMAs must verify frequency abbreviations against the full medication order.
Q4: A physician orders: "Furosemide 40 mg PO qAM." The medication should be administered:
A. Every evening
B. Every morning *[CORRECT]*
C. Every other day
D. As needed
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: qAM means "every morning." Timing abbreviations are part of the right time component of the Six Rights. Per
Indiana QMA training standards, QMAs must recognize schedule abbreviations and verify that medications are given within the
facility's designated time window (typically ± 1 hour for routine medications).
Q5: The physician orders 750 mg of a medication. The pharmacy dispenses 250 mg tablets. Using the formula
Dose Ordered / Dose On Hand × Quantity = Amount to Administer, how many tablets should the QMA
administer?
A. 1 tablet
B. 2 tablets
C. 3 tablets *[CORRECT]*
D. 4 tablets
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: 750 mg / 250 mg × 1 tablet = 3 tablets. The Desired/Available × Quantity formula is the dosage calculation method
taught in the Ivy Tech HLHS 117 QMA curriculum. QMAs in Indiana are responsible for calculating dosages from available
forms, and any calculation result that is not a whole tablet or measurable dose should be clarified with the licensed nurse or
pharmacist before administration.
Q6: A liquid medication order reads: "Amoxicillin suspension 500 mg PO." The bottle label states 250 mg/5
mL. How many mL should the QMA pour?
A. 5 mL
B. 10 mL *[CORRECT]*
C. 15 mL
D. 20 mL
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: 500 mg / 250 mg × 5 mL = 10 mL. Liquid dose calculation uses the same Desired/Available × Quantity formula. The
Ivy Tech QMA program requires QMAs to shake suspensions before pouring, use a calibrated medication cup or oral syringe,
and verify the concentration on the bottle against the medication order before administration.
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Standards | Ivy Tech HLHS 117 Curriculum
,QMA Ivy Tech Community College Practice Test | 2026/2027 Page 3
Q7: Using cross-multiplication, solve for x: 100 mg / 1 tablet = 200 mg / x tablets. The correct answer is:
A. 0.5 tablets
B. 1 tablet
C. 2 tablets *[CORRECT]*
D. 4 tablets
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Cross-multiplying: 100x = 200, so x = 2 tablets. Cross-multiplication is an alternative method taught in the Ivy Tech
QMA curriculum for verifying dosage calculations. QMAs should double-check calculations using a second method when results
seem unusual, and any fractional tablet dose (such as 1.5 tablets) requires verification that the tablet is scored and approved for
splitting.
Q8: A resident with a gastrostomy (G-tube) receives medications. The QMA should:
A. Crush enteric-coated tablets and dilute in water
B. Crush plain tablets, dissolve in liquid, and administer through the tube *[CORRECT]*
C. Give all medications together in one syringe to save time
D. Push pills whole through the tube
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Plain tablets may be crushed and dissolved in liquid for G-tube administration, but enteric-coated, extended-release,
and sublingual medications must NOT be crushed. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum teaches that each medication should be
administered separately with adequate water flushes between them to prevent tube clogging and drug interactions. Confirm
crushing appropriateness with the pharmacist or licensed nurse if unclear.
Q9: A resident has a jejunostomy (J-tube). Compared to a G-tube, medications given through a J-tube:
A. Are absorbed more slowly because the stomach is bypassed *[CORRECT]*
B. Should always be given as a rapid bolus push
C. Must be administered without any dilution
D. Require no special considerations
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The J-tube delivers medications directly into the jejunum (small intestine), bypassing the stomach's breakdown
process, which changes absorption rates and may require slower, more dilute administration. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum
covers enteral feeding routes, and QMAs must follow facility policy and licensed nurse direction regarding administration rate,
dilution, and medication compatibility with J-tube delivery.
Q10: Penicillin is derived from a living source (the mold Penicillium). This type of drug is classified as:
A. Synthetic drug
B. Semi-synthetic drug
C. Biological / natural source drug *[CORRECT]*
D. Chemical compound
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Drugs derived from living sources such as plants, animals, or microorganisms are classified as biological or natural
source drugs. Penicillin, derived from mold, is a classic example. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum distinguishes between natural
source, synthetic (created in a laboratory), and semi-synthetic drugs (modified natural source compounds). Understanding drug
origins helps QMAs recognize potential allergic reactions and storage requirements.
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Standards | Ivy Tech HLHS 117 Curriculum
, QMA Ivy Tech Community College Practice Test | 2026/2027 Page 4
Q11: A resident takes a prescribed antihistamine and experiences dry mouth and drowsiness. These effects
are best described as:
A. Allergic effects
B. Side effects *[CORRECT]*
C. Toxic effects
D. Cumulative effects
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Side effects are secondary, predictable, and typically mild reactions to a medication that occur at therapeutic doses,
such as dry mouth and drowsiness with antihistamines. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum distinguishes side effects (mild, expected)
from allergic effects (immune response), toxic effects (overdose-level harm), and cumulative effects (buildup from repeated
dosing). QMAs should document side effects and notify the licensed nurse.
Q12: A resident develops hives, itching, and shortness of breath shortly after receiving a dose of an antibiotic.
This reaction is best described as:
A. A side effect of the medication
B. An allergic reaction *[CORRECT]*
C. A cumulative effect of the medication
D. An expected therapeutic effect
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Hives, itching, and shortness of breath indicate an allergic reaction, which is an immune-mediated response to a
medication. The Ivy Tech QMA curriculum and Indiana QMA scope require the QMA to immediately withhold further doses,
notify the licensed nurse, document the reaction, and be prepared to assist with emergency response. Allergic reactions can
progress to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening emergency.
Q13: A resident receives too high a dose of digoxin and develops nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances
(yellow halos). These symptoms represent:
A. Expected side effects
B. Allergic reactions
C. Toxic effects *[CORRECT]*
D. Cumulative effects
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Toxic effects occur when a medication accumulates to harmful levels, often due to excessive dosing or impaired
excretion. Digoxin toxicity presents with GI symptoms and visual disturbances such as yellow halos. Per Indiana QMA scope, the
QMA must immediately withhold the medication, notify the licensed nurse, and document findings. Toxic effects require prompt
medical evaluation.
Aligned with Indiana State Department of Health QMA Standards | Ivy Tech HLHS 117 Curriculum
