NCLEX: Pharmacology Essentials

What are the 'Six Rights' of medication administration that a nurse must verify?

The six rights are: Right Patient, Right Medication, Right Dose, Right Route, Right Time, and Right Documentation.

Which visual disturbance is a classic sign of Digoxin toxicity?

Yellow-green halos or blurred vision are classic signs of Digoxin toxicity.

What is the specific antidote for a Heparin overdose?

Protamine sulfate is the pharmacological antagonist used to reverse Heparin.

What is the specific antidote for a Warfarin (Coumadin) overdose?

Vitamin K (Phytonadione) is the antidote used to reverse the effects of Warfarin.

Where should sublingual medications be placed for administration?

Sublingual medications should be placed under the tongue to dissolve and absorb through the mucous membranes.

Why must the nurse rotate injection sites for a patient receiving insulin?

Site rotation prevents lipodystrophy, which is the abnormal distribution of fat that can interfere with insulin absorption.

What defines a 'high-alert' medication in a clinical setting?

High-alert medications are drugs that bear a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error.

What is a common, non-harmful side effect of Rifampin that patients should be warned about?

Rifampin can cause orange discoloration of urine, sweat, tears, and other body fluids.

Why are ACE inhibitors, such as Lisinopril, often discontinued if a patient develops a persistent, dry cough?

The cough is a common side effect caused by the accumulation of bradykinin in the lungs.

Why are non-selective beta-blockers like Propranolol contraindicated in patients with asthma?

Non-selective beta-blockers can cause bronchoconstriction by blocking Beta-2 receptors in the lungs.