10 Pharmacology and Medication Safety Free Online FlashCards

What does pharmacodynamics describe?

Pharmacodynamics describes what a drug does to the body, including its intended and adverse effects.

What does pharmacokinetics describe?

Pharmacokinetics describes what the body does to a drug: absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination.

What is the difference between mg and mL?

Milligrams (mg) measure the amount of drug; milliliters (mL) measure liquid volume.

How do you calculate a weight-based dose?

Calculate the dose as $\text{dose} = \text{dose per kg} \times \text{weight in kg}$.

How do you calculate a gravity drip rate?

Calculate gravity rate as $\text{gtt/min}=\frac{\text{volume (mL)}\times\text{drop factor (gtt/mL)}}{\text{time (min)}}$.

When may the oral route be unsuitable?

Oral medication may be inappropriate if swallowing is unsafe or consciousness is impaired; absorption can also be delayed.

How can poor perfusion affect subcutaneous absorption?

Subcutaneous absorption can be slower and less predictable when perfusion is poor.

What should be checked and monitored for IV or IO medication?

For IV and IO administration, verify access patency, compatibility, concentration, and administration rate; monitor for extravasation and adverse effects.

Why check for recent phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor use before nitroglycerin?

Recent phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor use matters because combining it with nitroglycerin can cause severe hypotension.

How can other sedatives affect opioid analgesics?

Benzodiazepines, alcohol, and other sedatives can compound opioid-related respiratory and central nervous system depression.

What must be true before giving oral glucose?

Give oral glucose only when the patient can protect the airway and swallow safely; use another authorized approach if not.

What five checks guide safe medication administration?

Confirm the right patient, medication and indication, dose, route and time, and preparation and documentation.