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Quizzes > Health & Medicine

Pharmacology Quiz for Nurses: Test Your Drug Knowledge

Quick, free nursing pharmacology practice questions. Instant feedback.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Praseetha NambiyathUpdated Aug 25, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art style coral nursing practice quiz with pills stethoscope dosage chart drug notes and instant feedback icons

This pharmacology quiz for nurses helps you check drug actions, side effects, and safe dosing with quick, NCLEX-style items. Get instant feedback as you go and pinpoint topics to review. For more focused study, try pharmacology practice questions, drill cardio meds with the antihypertensive drugs quiz, or broaden your review with pharmacy test questions.

Which parameter defines the time it takes for the plasma concentration of a drug to reduce by half?
Half-life
Bioavailability
Onset of action
Therapeutic index
The half-life (t½) of a drug is the time required for its plasma concentration to decrease by 50%, influencing dosing intervals and duration of action. It helps clinicians adjust dosage schedules to avoid accumulation or subtherapeutic levels. Understanding half-life is crucial for safe and effective drug therapy. For more details see .
Atorvastatin belongs to which class of lipid-lowering agents?
Bile acid sequestrants
PCSK9 inhibitors
Fibrates
Statins
Atorvastatin is a member of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, commonly known as statins. Statins reduce cholesterol synthesis in the liver and lower LDL levels. They are first-line therapy for hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular risk reduction. For further information see .
A common side effect of the ACE inhibitor lisinopril is?
Hypokalemia
Tinnitus
Bradycardia
Dry cough
ACE inhibitors like lisinopril block the breakdown of bradykinin, leading to a persistent dry cough in some patients. This side effect is often dose-related and may require substitution if severe. Monitoring for cough is part of patient follow-up in hypertension management. Learn more at .
What is the primary mechanism of action of beta-1 selective blockers like metoprolol?
Block beta-1 receptors
Inhibit calcium channels
Stimulate beta-2 receptors
Block alpha receptors
Beta-1 selective blockers selectively inhibit beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, reducing heart rate and contractility, which decreases myocardial oxygen demand. This effect is beneficial in hypertension and angina. Selectivity minimizes bronchial beta-2 blockade but may be lost at higher doses. See .
Furosemide is primarily used to treat which condition?
Hypertension
Asthma
Fluid overload
Hypothyroidism
Furosemide is a loop diuretic that inhibits the Na-K-2Cl transporter in the thick ascending limb, promoting diuresis and reducing fluid overload in heart failure and edema. It also helps lower blood pressure and relieve pulmonary congestion. Monitoring electrolytes is essential to avoid imbalances. Details at .
The antidote for heparin overdose is?
Vitamin K
Protamine sulfate
Flumazenil
Naloxone
Protamine sulfate binds to heparin, forming an inactive complex that reverses its anticoagulant effect quickly. It is indicated in cases of heparin-induced bleeding or overdose and is dosed based on the amount of heparin administered. Monitoring aPTT guides the reversal process. See .
The maximum recommended daily dose of acetaminophen for an adult is closest to?
4 g
5 g
2 g
3 g
Acetaminophen dosing should not exceed 4 grams per 24-hour period in healthy adults to avoid hepatotoxicity. Chronic use at high doses increases risk of severe liver injury. Alternative pain management strategies should be considered if higher dosing is required. More information at .
Nitroglycerin for acute angina is most appropriately administered via which route?
Sublingual
Rectal
Oral
Intravenous
Sublingual nitroglycerin bypasses first-pass metabolism, allowing rapid absorption and relief of acute anginal pain within minutes. Oral or transdermal routes have slower onset and are not suitable for acute episodes. Patient education on proper sublingual use is essential for effectiveness. Reference .
A drug that binds to a receptor without activating it is called?
Partial agonist
Agonist
Inverse agonist
Antagonist
An antagonist occupies receptors without triggering a response, preventing agonists from binding and activating the receptor. This mechanism is used therapeutically to inhibit excessive receptor-mediated activity in various conditions. Understanding antagonists is crucial in selecting appropriate pharmacotherapy. Learn more at .
Which laboratory test is most appropriate for monitoring warfarin therapy?
PT/INR
ALT
Platelet count
aPTT
Warfarin prolongs prothrombin time (PT), and the international normalized ratio (INR) standardizes results across laboratories. Regular INR monitoring ensures therapeutic anticoagulation and minimizes bleeding risk. Target INR ranges vary based on clinical indication. Read more at .
Therapeutic drug monitoring of gentamicin involves measuring which serum levels?
Random level
Peak and trough
Only peak
Only trough
Gentamicin has a narrow therapeutic index; measuring both peak (efficacy) and trough (toxicity) levels helps optimize dosing and reduce nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Peaks are drawn after infusion completion, troughs just before the next dose. Proper timing of draws is essential for accurate interpretation. Guidelines at .
Loop diuretics like furosemide act primarily at which part of the nephron?
Ascending loop of Henle
Distal convoluted tubule
Descending loop of Henle
Proximal convoluted tubule
Furosemide inhibits the Na-K-2Cl symporter in the thick ascending limb of Henle's loop, causing significant natriuresis and diuresis. This region reabsorbs a large portion of filtered sodium, making loop diuretics very potent. It is commonly used in edema management and acute pulmonary edema. More details at .
Diazepam is classified as which type of drug?
Benzodiazepine
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor
NSAID
Barbiturate
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that enhances GABA-A receptor activity, producing anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant effects. It is used in anxiety disorders, seizure control, and procedural sedation. Long-term use carries risks of tolerance and dependence. See .
Calculate the dose of drug X at 5 mg/kg for a 70 kg patient.
450 mg
250 mg
350 mg
400 mg
Dose calculation: 5 mg/kg multiplied by 70 kg equals 350 mg total dose. Accurate math prevents dosing errors and potential toxicity. Always confirm patient weight and double-check calculations. See guidelines at .
Which adverse effect is most associated with aminoglycosides?
Hypoglycemia
Hepatotoxicity
Nephrotoxicity
Thrombocytopenia
Aminoglycosides can accumulate in renal cortical cells, leading to acute tubular necrosis and nephrotoxicity. Ototoxicity is also a well-known adverse effect due to hair cell damage in the inner ear. Monitoring renal function and drug levels reduces risk. More at .
Why are beta-blockers contraindicated in asthma patients?
They increase airway inflammation
They cause bronchoconstriction by blocking beta-2 receptors
They cause reflex tachycardia
They increase airway secretions
Nonselective beta-blockers block beta-2 receptors in bronchial smooth muscle, causing bronchoconstriction and potentially precipitating asthma attacks. Beta-1 selective agents may be used cautiously in some patients. Always assess respiratory status before prescribing. Reference .
Concurrent use of SSRIs and MAO inhibitors can lead to?
Anticholinergic toxicity
Malignant hyperthermia
Serotonin syndrome
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Combining SSRIs and MAO inhibitors increases serotonin levels excessively and can precipitate serotonin syndrome, characterized by mental status changes, autonomic instability, and neuromuscular abnormalities. It is potentially life-threatening and requires immediate discontinuation of causative agents. Avoid this combination and allow adequate washout periods. See .
What is a Phase I metabolic reaction in drug metabolism?
Acetylation
Glucuronidation
Conjugation
Oxidation
Phase I reactions introduce or expose functional groups on drugs through oxidation, reduction, or hydrolysis, often via cytochrome P450 enzymes. These reactions increase drug polarity and prepare molecules for Phase II conjugation. They can activate prodrugs or produce toxic metabolites. Read more at .
The therapeutic index is defined as which of the following ratios?
MTC/MEC
MEC/MTC
LD50/ED50
ED50/LD50
The therapeutic index is calculated as the median lethal dose (LD50) divided by the median effective dose (ED50). A higher therapeutic index indicates a greater safety margin between effective and toxic doses. It guides clinicians in assessing drug safety. Details at .
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is mediated by antibodies directed against?
PF4-heparin complexes
Platelet integrin
Thrombin
Factor V
HIT is caused by antibodies against platelet factor 4 bound to heparin, leading to platelet activation, thrombocytopenia, and thrombosis. Recognizing HIT early and discontinuing heparin is critical to prevent complications. Alternate anticoagulants are used for management. See .
ACE inhibitors lower blood pressure by inhibiting the conversion of?
Angiotensinogen to angiotensin I
Angiotensin I to angiotensin II
Aldosterone to deoxycortisol
Renin to angiotensin I
ACE inhibitors block the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, thereby reducing vascular resistance and aldosterone secretion. This results in vasodilation and lower blood pressure. They also increase bradykinin levels, which may cause cough. More at .
First-pass metabolism primarily affects drugs that are administered by?
Oral
Sublingual
Intramuscular
Intravenous
Orally administered drugs pass through the liver via the portal circulation before reaching systemic circulation, where enzymes can metabolize a significant portion, reducing bioavailability. Sublingual and intravenous routes bypass this first-pass effect. Understanding first-pass metabolism guides route selection and dosing strategies. Read .
Toxic levels of digoxin are most likely to cause which ECG change?
QT prolongation
U-wave prominence
Prolonged QT interval
ST segment scooping
Digoxin toxicity often produces a characteristic "scooped" ST-segment depression along with possible PR prolongation and arrhythmias. Recognizing these ECG changes aids early detection of digoxin toxicity. ECG monitoring is essential when levels are supratherapeutic. See .
Which factor most decreases oral bioavailability of a drug?
High lipid solubility
High first-pass metabolism
Low protein binding
Rapid absorption
High first-pass metabolism in the liver significantly reduces the amount of unchanged drug entering systemic circulation after oral administration. Other factors such as poor GI stability and limited absorption also affect bioavailability. Route selection and dose adjustments account for first-pass loss. Learn more at .
Chloramphenicol inhibits bacterial growth by which mechanism?
Binding 50S ribosomal subunit and inhibiting protein synthesis
Inhibiting cell wall synthesis
Inhibiting DNA gyrase
Disrupting folic acid synthesis
Chloramphenicol binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit and inhibits peptidyl transferase, blocking protein synthesis. It has broad-spectrum activity but serious adverse effects like aplastic anemia limit its use. It also penetrates the CSF effectively, making it useful in certain infections. Details at .
Protein-binding displacement interactions can lead to increased free drug. Which condition enhances drug displacement?
Increased protein synthesis
Increased affinity of the displacing drug for albumin
Increased volume of distribution
Decreased blood flow
A drug with higher affinity for plasma proteins can displace another drug from albumin binding sites, increasing the free fraction and risk of toxicity. Conditions like hypoalbuminemia also augment displacement interactions. Monitoring free drug levels is important in such cases. See .
Rifampin reduces the effect of warfarin by inducing which enzyme system?
CYP2C9
CYP1A2
CYP2D6
CYP3A4
Rifampin is a potent inducer of the cytochrome P450 family, particularly CYP2C9, which metabolizes the more active S-enantiomer of warfarin. Induction accelerates warfarin clearance and reduces its anticoagulant effect, requiring dose adjustments. Awareness of this interaction is critical for safe coadministration. See .
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand Fundamental Drug Mechanisms -

    Engage with nursing pharmacology practice questions to reinforce your understanding of how different drug classes interact with body receptors and pathways.

  2. Analyze and Recognize Common Side Effects -

    Identify typical adverse reactions associated with various medications and learn to anticipate patient responses in clinical scenarios.

  3. Apply Accurate Dosage Calculations -

    Perform dosage computations for diverse patient profiles, ensuring safe and effective medication administration in practice tests.

  4. Evaluate Clinical Scenarios Using Pharmacology Principles -

    Assess realistic patient cases to determine appropriate drug therapy choices and strengthen decision-making skills.

  5. Interpret Instant Feedback for Continuous Improvement -

    Use the quiz's immediate results to pinpoint misunderstandings and guide your targeted nursing pharmacology review questions.

  6. Identify Knowledge Gaps in Nursing Pharmacology -

    Recognize areas needing further study based on your performance across practice questions and plan effective review strategies.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Understanding Drug Mechanisms -

    Knowing how drugs interact at receptor sites is crucial for effective treatment; for example, beta-blockers like propranolol competitively block β1 receptors to lower heart rate, a principle outlined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Classifying medications as agonists or antagonists helps you tackle nursing pharmacology review questions confidently. Practice explaining one mechanism per drug to reinforce your mastery.

  2. Applying Dosage Calculation Formulas -

    Master the formula: (Desired dose ÷ Stock strength) × Volume = Amount to administer, as recommended by The Joint Commission. For instance, if you need 250 mg of amoxicillin and the vial is 500 mg/5 mL, calculate (250 ÷ 500)×5 = 2.5 mL. Use nursing pharmacology practice questions to drill these calculations until they become second nature.

  3. Recognizing Common Adverse Effects -

    Use mnemonics like SLUDGE (Salivation, Lacrimation, Urination, Defecation, GI upset, Emesis) to recall signs of cholinergic excess, as noted in WHO guidelines. Similarly, remember "Hot as a hare, blind as a bat" for anticholinergic toxicity. Practice matching drug classes to their side-effect profiles in each nursing pharmacology practice test scenario.

  4. Mastering Pharmacokinetics (ADME) -

    Understand Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion to predict drug behavior; Goodman & Gilman's textbook highlights how hepatic metabolism (Phase I & II) alters drug activity. Recognize factors like first-pass effect and protein binding percentage to answer pharmacokinetics questions accurately. Reinforce these concepts with targeted nursing pharmacology quiz online modules.

  5. Applying the Five Rights of Medication Administration -

    Always verify the Right Patient, Right Drug, Right Dose, Right Route, and Right Time before giving any medication, per Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) standards. This checklist approach is key to acing pharmacology questions nursing school scenarios where safety trumps speed. Simulate clinical vignettes in your review to build confidence under pressure.

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