Nursing Pharmacology Study Guide &
NCLEX Exam | Questions and Correct
Answers
1. Which of the following is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors?
A. Bradycardia
B. Persistent cough
C. Hyperglycemia
D. Constipation
Answer: B. Persistent cough
Rationale: ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril) can cause a persistent dry cough due to increased
bradykinin levels. Monitor for cough and angioedema.
2. A patient is prescribed furosemide. Which electrolyte imbalance should the nurse
monitor for?
A. Hyperkalemia
B. Hypokalemia
C. Hypernatremia
D. Hypocalcemia
Answer: B. Hypokalemia
Rationale: Loop diuretics like furosemide increase potassium excretion, leading to
hypokalemia. Monitor potassium levels and educate patients on potassium-rich foods.
, 3. Which drug is classified as a beta-blocker?
A. Amlodipine
B. Metoprolol
C. Losartan
D. Digoxin
Answer: B. Metoprolol
Rationale: Metoprolol is a beta-1 selective blocker, used to decrease heart rate and blood
pressure. Monitor heart rate and blood pressure.
4. The nurse is administering warfarin. Which lab value is most important to monitor?
A. aPTT
B. INR
C. Creatinine
D. Platelet count
Answer: B. INR
Rationale: Warfarin’s therapeutic effect is monitored using INR (normal ~2–3 for most
indications). Adjust dose accordingly.
5. Which medication is an anticholinergic?
A. Atropine
B. Bethanechol
C. Pilocarpine
D. Metoclopramide
Answer: A. Atropine
Rationale: Atropine blocks acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, increasing heart rate and
decreasing secretions. Monitor for dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention.
6. A patient taking digoxin should be monitored for:
A. Hypotension
B. Bradycardia
C. Hypoglycemia
D. Cough
Answer: B. Bradycardia
Rationale: Digoxin slows AV conduction and increases cardiac contractility. Check apical pulse
before administration and monitor for signs of toxicity.