Test your basic knowledge |

NCLEX Medications

Subjects : nclex, health-sciences, nursing

Instructions:

Answer 50 questions in 30 minutes.
If you are not ready to take this test, you can study here.
Match each statement with the correct term.
Don't refresh. All questions and answers are randomly picked and ordered every time you load a test.

This is a study tool. The 3 wrong answers for each question are randomly chosen from answers to other questions. So, you might find at times the answers obvious, but you will see it re-enforces your understanding as you take the test each time.

1. What is important to know about Fosamax? (use - teach - SE)
Baclofen
It is an insulin that should be taken at the same time everyday. Can take with or without food. It is a 24 hour insulin. Do not mix with any other insulin including regular.
Singulair
It is a bone reabsorption inhibitor used in postmenopausal women suffering from osteoporosis. Teach to remain upright for 30 mins after taking. SE include trouble swallowing - chest pain - or severe worsening heartburn.

2. What is the action of beta blockers?
The NORMAL LEVEL Is 0.5-2.0.If level is too low=SOB - dec. output - incr. edema. If level is too high= toxicity= N&V - yellow green vision - bradycardia - and anorexia. That amount of free med is What causes toxicity. D/T low serum protein NEVER give
They block beta receptors in the heart causing decr. HR - decr. force of contraction - and decr. rate of AV conduction.
It is used to decrease S&S of UTI. Should be d/ced when S&S are gone.
IT Is A STEROID THAT Is USED TO HASTEN FETAL LUNG MATURITY. SE include increased blood sugar so Check moms blood sugar. REQUIRES 24 HOURS TO Work. IF MOM Is GOING TO DELiver In 12 HOURS IT SHOULDN'T BE GIVEN.

3. What is ginseng and its uses/concerns?
Avandia
It is an herb used to increase memory for alzheimers and as an anticoagulant.
It is an herb used to increase physical endurance - help cope with stress - improved memory - and increases cortisol. Should not be used continuously for more than 3 months without 1-2 weeks break.
It is an erythromycin antibiotic that is used to decrease HELICOBACTER PYLORI and for gastric ulcer treatment.

4. What is impt to know about Ancef - keflex - and ceclor? (SE - TX - check for).
It is an anticonvulsant that is used to PREVENT SEIZURES And DECREASE NERVE PAIN. Check CBC. It suppresses bone marrow (RBC - WBC - & platelets) So at risk for infection - anemia - and bleeding. Need to PREVENT INFECTION.
They are cephalosporin drugs in which you look for thrush in babies - yeast infections in females - tx=Give yogurt to prevent vaginal probs and check for allergy to PNC.
NO!!!
Actonel and Boniva

5. Can lasix and vasopressin be given together?
It is an opiate analgesic. Check BP and respirations. Dose= 2-10 mg. Do Not give with kidney stones - gallstones - increased ICP - myasthenia gravis - or pancreatitis.
Prevents absorption of fat from the GI tract.
No because they have opposing actions and would cancel each other out.
10 am (midmorning)

6. What food considerations should be made for a patient on tetracycline?
The streptomycin bc aminoglycosides can cause hearing loss (ototoxicity)
It is an oral antidiabetic that is used in type 2 diabetes. Liver studies should be checked. SE include ovulation in non - ovulating women.
Avoid milk and milk products (2 hrs prior to or after administration).
Procardia

7. What are 2 examples of a diruretic?
LASIX and Mannitol
It is a biologic modifier that improves a persons immune system so that they may have less infections.
It is used to increase a patients glucose level in an emergency (severe hypoglycemia).
It is an antiviral used to treat herpes. It is toxic to the kidneys

8. What are 5 examples of herbs?

9. What is a toxic level of digoxin?
They are antilipidemics used to help manage/decrease cholesterol levels. For All DO Not take when pregnant or nursing. Check liver studies. Can take with or without food.
It is an opiate analgesic. Check BP and respirations. Dose= 2-10 mg. Do Not give with kidney stones - gallstones - increased ICP - myasthenia gravis - or pancreatitis.
2.0 ng/ml and up (therapeutic range is .5-1.9 ng)
It is a vitamin given to TB patient to decrease neuritis when taking INH. Do Not use with levodopa.

10. What is important to know about procardia? (administered - use - action - SE)
It is an antihypertensive that should be administered via prick and squeeze method under the tongue for above T6 lesion. It will decrease BP - increase blood to myocardium - and decrease pain. SE includes peripheral edema.
They are opiate analgesics. Percoce(T) is tylenol based and Percoda(N) is aspirin based. Stomach problems (gastric ulcer)= Percocet over Percodan bc less hard on the stomach than ASA. Dilantin hard on liver/tylenol is hard on liver so give percodan i
It reduces pain or various procedures including venipuncture - heel lances - and circumcision. It anesthetizes nerve endings for up to four hours and should be applied an hour prior to the procedure (although studies show it still reduces pain even 5
Do not give if patient has liver disease and it's not useful for anti - inflammatory. There are 4 kinds each with the same amount of tylenol and different amounts of codeine. (1=325 T and 8mg C - 2= 325 T and 15 mg C - 3= 325 T and 30 mg C - and 4= 3

11. What is an example of a bronchodilator?
Singulair
A normal dose is 5-10 mg and you must check for S&S of patient overdose.
Consume foods high in potassium: chocolate - broccoli - potatoes - fruits and veggies - and nuts.
It is an antipsychotic that is used to treat schizophrenia and psychotic symptoms. It lasts many weeks after being d/ced.

12. What food considerations should be made for patients on iron supplements?
AZT/Retrovir and Norvir
Avoid taking with (and up to 1 hour after) milk - eggs - coffee - or tea. Liquid iron should be added to water or juice and given through a straw to prevent stains.
Avoid milk and milk products (2 hrs prior to or after administration).
It is an herb used to increase memory for alzheimers and as an anticoagulant.

13. What is an example of an antianginal/vasodilator?
No bc they are made with potassium salt.
It is an insulin that should be taken at the same time everyday. Can take with or without food. It is a 24 hour insulin. Do not mix with any other insulin including regular.
Imdur (Isosorbide)
Do smoke while wearing and don't apply to breast.

14. What is an example of an oral antidiabetic?
Avandia
It is an antipsychotic used to treat psychotic symptoms. Monitor blood sugar - temp - and liver enzymes. Not safe for kids. SE is NEUROLEPTIC MALIGNANT SYNDROME. Avoid over heating.
Antabuse
It is an antibiotic that is not absorbed by the gut and used to sterilize the gut by decreasing e.coli leading to decreased ammonia level resulting in improved LOC.

15. What is important to know about Synthroid? (use - teach)
No bc they are made with potassium salt.
It is a laxative/ammonia detoxicant used to decrease ammonia leading to increased LOC (expected outcome). If ammonia level is increasing give PRN dose of lactalose. Used as a laxative for cirrhosis also.
It is an erectile/impotence agent used for erectile dysfunction. SE include HA - flushing - dizziness - insomnia - MI - CV collapse - and erection lasting > 4 hours. DO Not use with beta blockers or nitrates.
It is a thyroid hormone that is used lifelong after a thyroidectomy or for hypothyroidism. Teach patients to report signs of overdose (incr. HR) and avoid stimulant (coffee - tea - etc.).

16. What Is IMPORTANT TO Know ABOUT BETAMETHASOne? (use - SE - check - action timing)

17. Can salt substitutes be given to Addison's patients?
The streptomycin bc aminoglycosides can cause hearing loss (ototoxicity)
They are antipsychotic meds used for psychotic disorders - nonpsychotic anxiety - and schizos. USE sunscreen. Watch for tardive dyskinesia.
No bc they are made with potassium salt.
Imdur (Isosorbide)

18. What is an example of an antiinflammatory?
It is an oral antidiabetic that is used in type 2 diabetes. Liver studies should be checked. SE include ovulation in non - ovulating women.
Gram (ex: pyelogram)
Clomid
Azulfidine

19. What is an example of an isotretinoin?
Acutane
Take 2-4 hrs apart from each other.
Potassium chloride and potassium
No because they have opposing actions and would cancel each other out.

20. What is important to know about heparin? (normal lab - antidote)
Mannitol
IT Is A STEROID THAT Is USED TO HASTEN FETAL LUNG MATURITY. SE include increased blood sugar so Check moms blood sugar. REQUIRES 24 HOURS TO Work. IF MOM Is GOING TO DELiver In 12 HOURS IT SHOULDN'T BE GIVEN.
It is an anticoagulant in which expected PTT values are 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 x normal. Protamine sulfate is given to reverse the drug. PTT < 45 = no anticoag and > 75=hemorrhage (look for bruises/red - brown urine. DO Not use with MI.
INH - Vitamin B6 - and Rifampin

21. What is an example of a proton pump inhibitor?
They are antibiotics. Don't give with cephalosporins (ancef - keflex - and ceclor) and watch for thrush.
It is a hemantinic that should be taken with vitamin C to help with absorption. SE includes false positive for blood in stool.
Protonix
Ipecac syrup

22. What is important to know about gentamicin? (SE - Check - Do not take w/).
(cardiac med) 2.5-10 mg
It is an antacid. ALUMINUM based side effects include constipation and binds phosphate. MAGNESIUM based side effects include diarrhea (give 30 mins after meals). Prevents absorption of other medications.
It is an antibiotic (aminoglycoside) in which SE include ototoxicity - nephrotoxicity - and vertigo. Check I&O & serum creatinine. DO Not give to patients with chronic renal failure.
It reduces pain or various procedures including venipuncture - heel lances - and circumcision. It anesthetizes nerve endings for up to four hours and should be applied an hour prior to the procedure (although studies show it still reduces pain even 5

23. What is impt to know about Valium? (norm dose - check)
It is a hormone used to stimulate bone barrow to make RBCs. Outcome= patient has decreased SOB and color is better.
A normal dose is 5-10 mg and you must check for S&S of patient overdose.
The streptomycin bc aminoglycosides can cause hearing loss (ototoxicity)
It is an erectile/impotence agent not to be taken with nitrates as BP can decrease quickly. SE include HA - flushed feeling upset stomach - trouble telling blue and green apart and seeing blue tinge to things - eyes more sensitive to light - blurred

24. What is an example of a potassium sparing diuretic?
Places that are prone to friction (waistline) - breasts (for patches containing estrogen or nicotine) - and try to avoid hairy areas (if you must don't shave just clip the hair close to the skin).
Atropine
They are antianginals/vasodilators that are used when chest pain is present. Watch for HYPOTENSION.
Aldactone

25. What teaching should be done regarding transdermal patches?
It is a diuretic that is used for an increased ICP or glaucoma patient. Patient LOC will improve and vital signs will return to normal if effective.
It is an antifungal medication and creatinine and output should be checked when administered.
Check patch for leaks - place in appropriate location - make sure skin is clean and dry - when removing a patch fold it in half and discard in safe container (needle dispenser or flush not garbage) DO Not apply heat to patches (esp. fentanyl) bc medi
454 grams

26. What is important to know about nifedipine - verapamil - and toprol? (Use and watch)
BIAXIN - zithromax (aka z - max - z - pack - or zycam).
Used to decrease BP so need to watch for S&S of hypotension. They are used for CAD and BP.
20 mcg/ml and up (therapeutic range is 10-19.9 mcg)
It is an adrenergic medication used to relieve sinus congestion. The toxic effects of this medication are insomnia and hyperactivity.

27. Can digoxin and epinephrine given together?
It is an oral antidiabetic that is used in type 2 diabetes. Liver studies should be checked. SE include ovulation in non - ovulating women.
No because they have opposing actions and would cancel each other out.
Diamox
It is a bronchodilator/spasmolytic. The NORMAL LEVEL Is 10-20 mcg/ml. Avoid coffee - tea - chocolate - and cola. Give with care to patient with heart disease. Toxicity in adult= tachycardia. In Child= nervousness.

28. What Is IMPORTANT TO Know ABOUT LITHIUM? (norm level - toxicity - contraindications - expected outcome)
LITHIUM
It is an antipsychotic that is used to treat schizophrenia and psychotic symptoms. It lasts many weeks after being d/ced.
Parnate
It is an antipsychotic/antimanic. The normal level is 0.6-1.2 mEq/L. Signs of toxicity include DEHYDRATION And N&V. Do Not give with lasix. Watch for patient with stomach ache and not drinking. Pt within therapeutic level=no mania <0.6=mania.

29. What do beta blocker names end in?
Atropine
OLOL
They are antipsychotic meds used for psychotic disorders - nonpsychotic anxiety - and schizos. USE sunscreen. Watch for tardive dyskinesia.
Reglan

30. What is an example of a cardiac glycoside/antidysrhythmic?
Garlic - Gingko - St. John's Wort - Black Cocash - ad Saw Palmento.
It is an anticoagulant in which expected PTT values are 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 x normal. Protamine sulfate is given to reverse the drug. PTT < 45 = no anticoag and > 75=hemorrhage (look for bruises/red - brown urine. DO Not use with MI.
It is an NSAID. The MAX DOSE is 2400 mg/24 hours.
DIGOXIN

31. What is important to know about kayexelate? (time to work)
It is an insulin that should be taken at the same time everyday. Can take with or without food. It is a 24 hour insulin. Do not mix with any other insulin including regular.
It is a potassium removing resin that takes 6-8 hours to work.
Baclofen
They are beta blockers (antihypertensives) used to decreased BP and treat angina. DO Not give to DM bc it will mask low blood sugar and DO Not give to asthma patients bc it will cause bronchospasms.

32. What is important to know about tylenol? (Do not give w/ - not useful for - kinds/values).

33. What is a toxic level of theophylline?
It is a cerebral stimulant used for ADD patient to decrease activity. When given to elderly will increase activity level. Check CBC.
It should be covered by an occlusive dressing to keep it in place and assist absorption.
20 mcg/ml and up (therapeutic range is 10-15).
16 ounces

34. What locations should be avoided when placing transdermal patches?

35. What are the two major side effects of aminoglycosides?
Ototoxicity (hearing loss may be irreversible) and Nephrotoxicity (oliguria may lead to kidney damage).
It is a bone reabsorption inhibitor used for osteoporosis in women. SE include pain/redness/swelling in legs - hands - or feet - unexplained uterine bleeding or breast abnormalities.
It melts to half its volume!
'Mycin' drugs so Gentamicin and Streptomycin

36. What is an example of a bronchodilator/spasmolytic?
It is an herb that stimulates the immune system used for infections and wound healing. Patients with HIV - MS - or autoimmune diseases SHOULD Not USE!
It is an antiviral used to treat herpes. It is toxic to the kidneys
AMINOPHYLLINE (TheOPHYLLINE)
It is an adrenergic medication used to relieve sinus congestion. The toxic effects of this medication are insomnia and hyperactivity.

37. What is important to know about antabuse? (use - avoid w/ - d/c)
Increased urine output - decr. ICP - decreased eye pain (glaucoma) - and stable vitals.
Azulfidine
It is an alcohol deterrent medication to prevent alcohol abuse. It should not be taken with alcohol or cough syrup and must be d/c for 2 weeks before taking a drink.
It is an antiviral used to treat herpes. It is toxic to the kidneys

38. What is important to know about glucagon? (use)
The NORMAL LEVEL Is 0.5-2.0.If level is too low=SOB - dec. output - incr. edema. If level is too high= toxicity= N&V - yellow green vision - bradycardia - and anorexia. That amount of free med is What causes toxicity. D/T low serum protein NEVER give
Neupogen
Gram (ex: pyelogram)
It is used to increase a patients glucose level in an emergency (severe hypoglycemia).

39. What is a normal adult dose of Coumadin (warfarin)?
Acutane
It is an antiemetic that slows emptying of the stomach and should be taken before meals.
AZT/Retrovir and Norvir
(cardiac med) 2.5-10 mg

40. What is important to know about levodopa? (use - SE - avoid)
Carafate - Penicillin - and Isoniazid (INH).
Pryidium
It is an antiparkinson agent used to decrease tremors and improve gait. SE include nystagmus and hypotension. Use ted hose and avoid vitamin B6.
Lactalose

41. What is impt to know about neurontin? (Use)
Avoid taking with (and up to 1 hour after) milk - eggs - coffee - or tea. Liquid iron should be added to water or juice and given through a straw to prevent stains.
Glucagon
It is an anticonvulsant that is used to prevent seizures and decrease pain of neuropathy.
Parnate

42. How often are fentanyl patches for pain applied?
Zyban (wellbutrin) to help combat depressed mood associated with quitting smoking.
Aspirin (incr. bleed) - Coumadin (incr. bleed) - Dilantin (seizure) - Flagyl - Isoniazid (INH) (liver damage) - tranquilizers (sedation) - and Tylenol.
Q3 days
An allergy to iodine

43. What is important to know about Aldactone? (contraindications)
It is an herb used to increase memory for alzheimers and as an anticoagulant.
Pitressin/Vasopressin
It is a potassium sparing diuretic. Do Not give with renal failure and check output.
The patient needs to consume 8-10 glasses of water a day.

44. What is the only diuretic that will pull fluid from the brain or the eyes?
Imdur (Isosorbide)
Ritalin
Mannitol
They are beta blockers (antihypertensives) used to decreased BP and treat angina. DO Not give to DM bc it will mask low blood sugar and DO Not give to asthma patients bc it will cause bronchospasms.

45. What is important to know about Levitra/celias? (use - SE - contraindications)
INH - Vitamin B6 - and Rifampin
Epogen
It is an erectile/impotence agent used for erectile dysfunction. SE include HA - flushing - dizziness - insomnia - MI - CV collapse - and erection lasting > 4 hours. DO Not use with beta blockers or nitrates.
Cardizem/calan - benzazepril - lisinopril - accupril - atenolol - inderal - lopressor - and toprol.

46. For which two drugs is N&V a sign of toxicity?
It is an erythromycin antibiotic that is used for Upper respiratory infections and is considered a super antibiotic that works in 2-3 days. You should monitor PT & INR when on coumadin also. DO Not take with antacids.
Digoxin and Colchicine
Lipitor - Advicor - Crestor - Questran - and Zocor
Fluorocytosine/5 FU

47. In What type of patient should vitamin K containing foods be increased?
Q3 days
In patient taking cholesterol lowering meds because they decrease absorption of vitamins ADE&K.
Methergine
They are used to stop smoking. Know Teaching. SE include N&V - sleep disturbances - constipation - gas - depressed mood - or suicidal thoughts.

48. What is important to know about Gantrisin? (avoid - What take).
It is an antibiotic in which you should avoid milk products and DO Not give to pregnant women.
2 cups
Pregnancy - lactation - nonsmokers - serious arrhythmias - angina - vasospastic disease - active temporomandibular joint disease - and use in individuals less than 18 years of age.
It is a sulfa antibiotic and you should avoid Vit. C and sun with use. Fluids should be increased during use.

49. What is important to know about Valtrex? (use - watch)
It is a chemo agent. SE= N&V and decreased bone marrow function.
It is an antiviral used to treat herpes. It is toxic to the kidneys
They are beta blockers (antihypertensives) used to decreased BP and treat angina. DO Not give to DM bc it will mask low blood sugar and DO Not give to asthma patients bc it will cause bronchospasms.
It is an herb that acts like an MAOI and is used for mild to moderate depression - anxiety - wound healing - and viral infections (herpes). Should not be used in HIV patients.

50. Is there any concern for a female who needs a test with dye/contrast and is considering pregnancy?
A patient with chronic renal failure and Addison's disease because potassium can harm them.
No because the dye exits the body in one day!
It is an opiate analgesic. Check BP and respirations. Dose= 2-10 mg. Do Not give with kidney stones - gallstones - increased ICP - myasthenia gravis - or pancreatitis.
Propanolol (inderal) - Atenolol (tenormin) - and metoprolol (lopressor).