Nursing pharmacology practice questions - Exam 1 2025/2026 verified

What is the main goal of pharmacotherapy? Ans – To prevent, control, or cure diseases by using specific medications effectively and safely. What is a prototype drug? Ans – A representative drug of a class that helps illustrate that group’s typical effects and side effects. What is the difference between agonists and antagonists? Ans – Agonists activate receptors to produce a response, while antagonists block receptors to prevent a response. What is a loading dose? Ans – A larger initial dose given to rapidly achieve therapeutic levels of a drug in the bloodstream. What is the placebo effect? Ans – When a patient experiences a perceived improvement after taking a non-active substance. What is the difference between local and systemic effects of drugs? Ans – Local effects occur at the site of application, while systemic effects involve the entire body after absorption. What are sustained-release drugs? Ans – Medications formulated to release the active ingredient slowly over time for prolonged action. What is sublingual administration? Ans – Placing a drug under the tongue for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. What is the intramuscular route used for? Ans – For drugs that need to be absorbed quickly but cannot be given orally, such as vaccines or hormones. What is the intravenous route? Ans – Administration directly into the bloodstream for immediate effect. Why is medication reconciliation important? Ans – To ensure continuity and accuracy of a patient’s medication list across healthcare transitions. What are teratogenic drugs? Ans – Drugs that can cause birth defects when taken during pregnancy. What is the black box warning on drugs? Ans – The FDA’s strongest warning indicating serious or life-threatening risks associated with the drug. What are the main responsibilities of nurses during drug administration? Ans – Assess, administer safely, monitor effects, educate the patient, and document all actions. Why is documentation important in pharmacology? Ans – To provide legal evidence, ensure continuity of care, and track drug effects or reactions. What is an idiosyncratic reaction? Ans – An uncommon, unpredictable drug response unique to an individual. What are synergistic effects of drugs? Ans – When two drugs taken together produce a greater effect than when taken separately. What is an antagonist effect between drugs? Ans – When one drug reduces or blocks the effect of another. What is cumulative drug effect? Ans – When the body cannot fully metabolize a drug before the next dose, causing increased concentration and risk of toxicity. What is the nursing action when a medication error occurs? Ans – Report immediately, assess the patient, document accurately, and follow institutional policy. What is the difference between prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs? Ans – Prescription drugs require a doctor’s authorization; OTC drugs can be purchased without one. What are examples of high-alert medications? Ans – Insulin, heparin, morphine, and chemotherapy drugs. What is a vesicant drug? Ans – A drug that causes tissue damage if it leaks outside a vein during IV administration. What are the stages of drug action in the body? Ans – Absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. What is the therapeutic index (TI)? Ans – A ratio comparing the toxic dose to the effective dose of a drug; a narrow TI means higher risk. What is the nurse’s role in preventing medication errors? Ans – Double-checking doses, verifying patient details, clarifying unclear orders, and monitoring for side effects. What is the effect of food on drug absorption? Ans – Some foods can delay, enhance, or prevent the absorption of certain drugs. What is photosensitivity in drug therapy? Ans – Increased skin sensitivity to sunlight caused by certain medications like tetracyclines. What should nurses teach patients about antibiotics? Ans – Complete the full dose, avoid alcohol, and report allergic reactions or persistent symptoms. What is the difference between bacteriostatic and bactericidal drugs?