PHARM EXAM QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS
1. What class of medication is amitriptyline and why is this medication used as an
adjuvant medication for pain?
Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant. It is indicated for chronic pain syndromes such as
fibromyalgia, neuropathic and chronic pain, headache, and lower back pain.
2. A nurse is preparing to administer ipratropium by metered dose inhaler. What adverse effects
should the nurse instruct the client to monitor for?
Common adverse effects of ipratropium include:
1. Upper respiratory infections
2. UTI’s, frequent urge to urinate
3. bloody or cloudy urine
4. bladder pain
5. exacerbation of COPD
6. wheezing
7. SOB
8. Cough producing mucus
9. Tightness in chest
3. A nurse is caring for a client with asthma who asks if montelukast sodium can be taken for
acute asthma symptoms. When should montelukast sodium be taken?
Take once every night even if no symptoms occur to help prevent and manage asthma symptoms
4. A nurse is caring for a client prescribed the inhaled glucocorticoid beclomethasone (QVAR) for the
treatment of asthma. What is a potential adverse effect of this medication and what are two (2)
teaching points to discuss to address these adverse effects?
Adverse effects:
1. Difficulty speaking
2. Hoarseness
3. Candidiasis
Teaching points:
1. Rinse mouth, gargle with water or salt water after use to prevent candidiasis
2. Notify provider if redness, sores, or white patches appear in mucous membrane
5. A nurse is instructing a client who has a new prescription for nitroglycerin transdermal
patch about administration. What instructions should the nurse include?
The nitro patch works by relaxing blood vessels. This patch is for external use only. Apply the patch at
the same time every day. Apply to a hairless area of the chest, inner side of the upper arm, back, or
shoulder. Clean and dry skin completely before applying the patch. Do not apply the patch to irritated
or damaged skin. When removing the patch, fold it with sticky sides together to prevent administration
of medicine to someone that may handle the patch. The patch should only be worn for 12-14 hours per
day so that you will have a 10-12 hour nitrate free period each day. If you miss a dose, use the next
dose as soon as possible.
6. A nurse is providing instructions to a client who has a prescription for methotrexate. What
should the nurse include in the client education?
Educate to client to monitor for the presence of coffee-ground emesis or tarry black stools as this