You choose the safer drug action, the vital sign to check, and the teaching that belongs at the bedside. Five of the 15 questions include the correct answer and rationale. The other ten keep answers in the study hub. Continue with the LPN exams exam guide or more LPN exams practice questions.
Five pharmacology questions with answers
Cover the key. Write the first action. Then open the rationale and name why the other choices fail.
Question 1
Chloramphenicol is usually effective in:
A. Pulmonary tuberculosis
B. Epiglottitis
C. Typhoid
D. Bacterial meningitis
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Typhoid
Chloramphenicol is usually effective in typhoid (C), caused by Salmonella typhi, due to its broad-spectrum activity and excellent tissue penetration, including intracellular bacteria. It's not used for pulmonary tuberculosis (A), where specific anti-TB drugs like isoniazid are required, as chloramphenicol lacks activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It's effective in epiglottitis (B) caused by Haemophilus influenzae, especially in resource-limited settings, but cephalosporins are preferred. It's also effective in bacterial meningitis (D), penetrating the CSF well to treat H. influenzae, S. pneumoniae, and N. meningitidis infections. Bacterial conjunctivitis (original E) responds to topical chloramphenicol. Its use in typhoid reflects its historical efficacy, though resistance and rare aplastic anemia risk limit its routine use today, favoring fluoroquinolones or ceftriaxone in many regions.
Question 2
A 65-year-old male with hypertension is prescribed lisinopril. Lisinopril works by:
A. Inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II
B. Blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart
C. Relaxing vascular smooth muscle
D. Increasing sodium excretion in the kidneys
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II
The correct answer is A. Lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, which works by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor that increases blood pressure. By inhibiting its production, lisinopril helps dilate blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and improve blood flow. This mechanism is crucial in managing hypertension.
Choice B is incorrect because beta-blockers, not ACE inhibitors like lisinopril, block beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart to reduce heart rate and blood pressure. Choice C is incorrect because while lisinopril does relax vascular smooth muscle, the primary mechanism is through angiotensin II inhibition. Choice D is incorrect because lisinopril does not directly affect sodium excretion in the kidneys; instead, it primarily targets the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system to regulate blood
Question 3
A patient is prescribed ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin transdermal contraceptive patch. Which statement, if made by the patient, indicates an understanding of the use of this drug?
A. The patch prevents pregnancy by acting as barrier.
B. I will experience minimal side effects because it is a progestin-only device.
C. I will remove the patch each month and replace it with a new patch 1 week later.
D. I will apply the patch in my vaginal area prior to having sexual intercourse.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — I will remove the patch each month and replace it with a new patch 1 week later.
Rationale for Correct Answer (C):
1. The patient stating "I will remove the patch each month and replace it with a new patch 1 week later" indicates understanding of the correct usage of the contraceptive patch.
2. Ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin are combined hormonal contraceptives that require a once-weekly application for 3 weeks followed by a patch-free week to allow for menstruation.
3. This statement reflects proper adherence to the dosing schedule, ensuring continuous contraceptive efficacy and hormone levels.
Summary of Incorrect Choices:
A. The patch does not act as a physical barrier; it releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.
B. Ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin are combined hormonal contraceptives, not progestin-only, so side effects may vary.
D. The patch should be applied to the skin, not in the vaginal area, and is not meant for immediate use before intercourse.
Question 4
A 64-year-old man suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia presented to his physician complaining of generalized itching. The problem began 1 week earlier, after an afternoon of prolonged sun exposure. The patient reported that the itching was distressing, especially during the night. Physical examination showed an enlarged prostate and no other evidence of ongoing disease. Which of the following drugs would be appropriate for this patient?
A. Cyproheptadine
B. Diphenhydramine
C. Famotidine
D. Loratadine
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Loratadine
The correct answer is D: Loratadine. Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine that is commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergies, including itching. In this case, the patient's generalized itching is likely due to an allergic reaction triggered by sun exposure. Loratadine can help alleviate the itching without causing excessive sedation, making it suitable for an elderly patient.
A: Cyproheptadine is a first-generation antihistamine that can cause significant sedation and anticholinergic side effects, making it less ideal for an elderly patient.
B: Diphenhydramine is also a first-generation antihistamine that can cause sedation and anticholinergic side effects, which may not be well-tolerated by the elderly patient.
C: Famotidine is a histamine-2 (H2) receptor antagonist used to reduce stomach acid production and treat ulcers, not itching related to allergic reactions.
Question 5
A 45-year-old male with hyperlipidemia is prescribed pravastatin. Pravastatin works by:
A. Inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines
B. Inhibiting the action of HMG-CoA reductase in the liver
C. Increasing HDL cholesterol levels
D. Blocking bile acid reabsorption
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Inhibiting the action of HMG-CoA reductase in the liver
The correct answer is B: Inhibiting the action of HMG-CoA reductase in the liver. Pravastatin is a statin medication that works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a key role in the liver's production of cholesterol. By blocking this enzyme, pravastatin reduces the liver's ability to produce cholesterol, leading to lower levels of LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream. This mechanism helps to lower the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with hyperlipidemia.
Choice A is incorrect because pravastatin does not inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines; it primarily acts in the liver. Choice C is incorrect because pravastatin primarily lowers LDL cholesterol levels rather than increasing HDL cholesterol levels. Choice D is incorrect because blocking bile acid reabsorption is not the primary mechanism of action of pravastatin in managing hyperlipidemia.
Keep going past these 15 questions
Missed-question review, longer banks, and the rest of 20,000+ nursing practice questions open when you start studying.
Stems and choices stay public so you can still reason. Correct answers and full rationales unlock with the rest of the bank.
Question 6
A 60-year-old male with hypertension is prescribed losartan. Losartan works by:
A. Blocking angiotensin II receptors
B. Inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine
C. Blocking calcium channels in the blood vessels
D. Inhibiting aldosterone secretion
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Blocking angiotensin II receptors. Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by specifically blocking the angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1) receptors. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, and by blocking its action at the receptor level, losartan helps dilate blood vessels and reduce blood pressure. This mechanism is specific to ARBs and distinguishes them from other classes of antihypertensive medications.
Choice B: Inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine is incorrect as this mechanism is associated with drugs like tricyclic antidepressants and not losartan.
Choice C: Blocking calcium channels in the blood vessels is incorrect as this mechanism is associated with calcium channel blockers like amlodipine, not losartan.
Choice D: Inhibiting aldosterone secretion is incorrect as this mechanism is associated with drugs like
Which of the following events best explains the patient's syndrome of weakness, paresthesias, constipation, and low potassium level in Addison disease?
A. Cortisol-induced hyperglycemia
B. Fludrocortisone excess
C. Inadequate therapy of adrenal insufficiency
D. Cortisol-induced myopathy
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Fludrocortisone excess. In Addison's disease, there is adrenal insufficiency leading to low levels of cortisol and aldosterone. Fludrocortisone is a synthetic mineralocorticoid used to replace aldosterone in the treatment of Addison's disease. Excess fludrocortisone can cause retention of sodium and water, leading to hypertension, hypokalemia, weakness, and paresthesias. Constipation can also occur due to altered electrolyte balance.
A: Cortisol-induced hyperglycemia is not the best explanation for the patient's symptoms as hyperglycemia is not a prominent feature of Addison's disease.
C: Inadequate therapy of adrenal insufficiency would not cause the specific symptoms mentioned.
D: Cortisol-induced myopathy is not the primary cause of weakness and paresthesias in Addison's disease; aldosterone deficiency leading to electrolyte imbalance is more relevant.
A depressed patient who is taking a tricyclic antidepressant tells the nurse, “I don’t think I can keep taking these pills. They make me very dizzy, especially when I stand up.†The best nursing response is:
A. “That is annoying, but it is something most patients are able to learn to live with as time goes on. You’ll get used to the medicine’s side effects.â€
B. “The medicine can slow the body’s adjustment of blood pressure when changing position; drinking more fluids and changing position slowly can help.â€
C. “Compared to the problems caused by the depression, it seems like a relatively small annoyance to have to put up with.â€
D. “All medicines have side effects, and this one is relatively mild. It could be that your depression is causing you to think negatively about the medicine.â€
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B. The nurse should educate the patient on orthostatic hypotension, a common side effect of tricyclic antidepressants that causes dizziness upon standing. By advising the patient to increase fluid intake and change positions slowly, the nurse is promoting safety and providing a practical solution to manage the side effect. This response addresses the patient's concern effectively and empowers them to take control of their symptoms.
Choice A is incorrect because dismissing the patient's symptoms as something to get used to does not address the potential risks of orthostatic hypotension. Choice C is incorrect as it minimizes the patient's discomfort and may invalidate their concerns. Choice D is incorrect as it dismisses the patient's symptoms by attributing them solely to negative thinking, rather than acknowledging the physiological effects of the medication.
You are managing a stable middle-aged adult with emphysema. In addition to reinforcing smoking cessation and medication schedules which annual intervention will you recommend?
A. Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23)
B. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13)
C. Quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (QIV)
D. Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAV)
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). This vaccine is recommended for adults with chronic lung conditions like emphysema to prevent pneumococcal infections. It helps in reducing the risk of pneumonia and its complications.
Rationale:
1. PPSV23 is specifically indicated for adults with chronic medical conditions, including emphysema.
2. Emphysema puts the individual at a higher risk for respiratory infections, including pneumococcal infections.
3. PPSV23 provides protection against pneumococcal bacteria, which is a common cause of pneumonia.
4. Administering PPSV23 annually helps maintain immunity and reduces the likelihood of pneumococcal infections in high-risk individuals.
Summary:
B: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) is primarily recommended for children, not for stable middle-aged adults with emphysema.
C: Quadrivalent inactivated
A 79-year-old patient is taking a diuretic for treatment of hypertension. This patient is very independent and wants to continue to live at home. The nurse will know that which teaching point is important for this patient?
A. He should take the diuretic with his evening meal.
B. He should skip the diuretic dose if he plans to leave the house.
C. If he feels dizzy while on this medication, he needs to stop taking it and take potassium supplements instead.
D. He needs to take extra precautions when standing up because of possible orthostatic hypotension and resulting injury from falls.
Correct answer:
Step 1: Diuretics can cause orthostatic hypotension, leading to a drop in blood pressure upon standing.
Step 2: Orthostatic hypotension increases the risk of falling and injury, especially in older adults.
Step 3: By instructing the patient to take extra precautions when standing up, the nurse helps prevent falls and injuries.
Step 4: This teaching point is crucial for promoting the patient's safety and independence at home.
Summary:
Choice A is incorrect because the timing of diuretic intake with meals is not as critical as preventing falls. Choice B is incorrect as skipping doses can lead to uncontrolled hypertension. Choice C is incorrect because stopping the medication abruptly can have negative consequences and potassium supplements may not be necessary. Choice D is correct as it addresses the potential side effect of orthostatic hypotension and emphasizes safety measures.
The therapeutic action of neurotransmitter inhibitors that block reuptake cause:
A. decreased concentration of the neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.
B. increased concentration of neurotransmitter in the synaptic gap.
C. destruction of receptor sites.
D. limbic system stimulation.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: increased concentration of neurotransmitter in the synaptic gap. When neurotransmitter reuptake is blocked, it remains in the synaptic gap longer, leading to an increased concentration available for binding to postsynaptic receptors. This enhances neurotransmission and can help alleviate symptoms associated with neurotransmitter imbalances.
A: decreased concentration of the neurotransmitter in the central nervous system - This is incorrect because blocking reuptake leads to an increased concentration of neurotransmitter, not decreased.
C: destruction of receptor sites - This is incorrect as blocking reuptake does not lead to the destruction of receptor sites.
D: limbic system stimulation - This is incorrect as blocking reuptake affects neurotransmitter levels in the synaptic gap, not the stimulation of a specific brain region like the limbic system.
If the plasma concentration of a drug declines with 'first-order kinetics', this means that
A. There is only one metabolic path for drug disposition
B. The half-life is the same regardless of the plasma concentration
C. The drug is largely metabolized in the liver after oral administration and has low bioavailability elimination
D. The rate of elimination is proportionate to the rate of administration at all times
Correct answer:
The correct answer is that the half-life is the same regardless of the plasma concentration (B). First-order kinetics implies that the rate of drug elimination is proportional to its plasma concentration, meaning a constant fraction of the drug is removed per unit time. This results in a consistent half-life, independent of the initial concentration, as seen with most drugs like aspirin. Option A is incorrect because multiple metabolic pathways can exist in first-order kinetics. Option C describes first-pass metabolism but isn't inherent to first-order kinetics. Option D is false as elimination rate depends on concentration, not administration rate. Option E (original) about vascular confinement is unrelated. This principle is foundational in pharmacokinetics, allowing predictable dosing regimens, unlike zero-order kinetics where half-life varies with concentration, as with ethanol.
This graph shows the concentration-dependent effects of norepinephrine on arterial blood pressure, both alone, and in the presence of a fixed concentration of Drug X. Which type of antagonist is Drug X?
A. Silent
B. Non-competitive
C. Competitive
D. Chemical
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Non-competitive antagonist. This is because a non-competitive antagonist binds irreversibly to a different site on the receptor compared to the agonist (norepinephrine in this case) and prevents its activation, leading to a decrease in response. In the graph, the presence of Drug X shifts the concentration-response curve of norepinephrine downward without affecting the maximum response, indicating non-competitive antagonism.
A: Silent antagonists do not affect the agonist's binding or activity on the receptor.
C: Competitive antagonists compete with the agonist for the same binding site on the receptor, affecting potency but not the maximum response.
D: Chemical antagonist is a broad term for any antagonist that binds to the agonist or receptor to prevent activation but does not specifically describe the mechanism like non-competitive antagonism does.
A patient has a blood pressure of 150/95 mm HG and 148/90 mm Hg on two separate office visits. This is consistent with a blood pressure of 145/92 mm Hg taken in an ambulatory setting. The patient's diagnostic tests are all normal. What will the patient's provider order to best manage the patient's hypertension?
A. A thiazide diuretic
B. A loop diuretic and Spironolactone
C. A beta blocker
D. ?
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: A thiazide diuretic. Thiazide diuretics are recommended as the initial medication for managing hypertension in patients without compelling indications. They are effective in lowering blood pressure by reducing the volume of circulating blood. In this case, the patient's blood pressure readings are consistently elevated, indicating the need for pharmacological management. Thiazide diuretics have been shown to reduce cardiovascular events and mortality in hypertensive patients. Loop diuretics and Spironolactone (Choice B) are not first-line treatments for hypertension and are typically used in specific cases like heart failure. Beta blockers (Choice C) are not the preferred initial treatment for hypertension in the absence of other compelling indications. Thus, the most appropriate choice for managing this patient's hypertension would be a thiazide diuretic.
A2-year-old boy was brought to the emergency department with high body temperature (104°F, 40°C), flushed and dry skin, and widely dilated pupils unresponsive to light. He was agitated and underwent a brief tonic-clonic convulsion. His mother stated that the boy apparently swallowed several tablets of her allergy medication. Which of the following drugs most likely caused the patient's poisoning?
A. Ibuprofen
B. Diphenhydramine
C. Phenylephrine
D. Celecoxib
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Diphenhydramine. Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine that can cause anticholinergic toxicity in overdose. The symptoms described in the question such as high body temperature, dry skin, dilated pupils, and agitation are consistent with anticholinergic poisoning. Diphenhydramine also has sedative effects which can lead to seizures in high doses.
A: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and overdose typically presents with symptoms like gastrointestinal upset and kidney injury, not the symptoms described in the question.
C: Phenylephrine is a decongestant that can cause hypertension and tachycardia in overdose, not the symptoms described in the question.
D: Celecoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor used as an NSAID and overdose usually presents with gastrointestinal symptoms, not the symptoms described in the question.
LPN exams pharmacology practice questions, set 5 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
No. Nursier is independent practice. Register through the official path named on the LPN exams exam guide.
The first five questions already include the rationale. Start full practice to unlock the remaining keys, missed-question review, and the rest of the bank.
Keep going past these 15 questions
Missed-question review, longer banks, and the rest of 20,000+ nursing practice questions open when you start studying.