Paramedic Quiz For Maes Students Chapter 7

Pharmacology is the study of medications and their effects or actions throughout the body. This field of study focuses on understanding how drugs interact with the body, including their absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination. It also examines the therapeutic effects and potential side effects of medications. By studying pharmacology, healthcare professionals can gain knowledge about the appropriate use of medications and make informed decisions regarding drug therapy for patients.

Tolerance refers to the phenomenon where a person's body becomes less responsive to a medication over time, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. This can occur with both prescription and recreational drugs. It is not the same as addiction or dependence, which involve psychological and behavioral factors. An idiosyncrasy refers to an individual's unique reaction to a medication, but it is not related to the concept of needing higher doses for the same effect.

Inflammation is a natural response by the body to protect and heal itself. Infection and injury are the two most common causes of inflammation. Infection triggers the body's immune system to respond and fight off harmful pathogens, leading to inflammation. Similarly, injury causes damage to tissues, which prompts the body's inflammatory response to repair the damaged area. Fever and phagocytosis, hypercarbia and hypoxemia, and immunosuppression and fever are not the primary causes of inflammation, making infection and injury the correct answer.

When the cause of a disease is unknown, it is referred to as idiopathic. This term is used to describe diseases or conditions for which the underlying cause cannot be determined or identified. It implies that the disease is of unknown origin or etiology. The other options - organic, functional, and pathologic - do not specifically refer to diseases with unknown causes but rather describe different aspects or characteristics of diseases.

As a paramedic, it is crucial to ensure that medication administration in the field is safe, therapeutic, and effective. This means that the medications being given should not pose any harm to the patient, they should have the desired therapeutic effect, and they should be effective in treating the condition or symptoms they are intended for. This responsibility ensures that the paramedic follows best practices and guidelines to provide the highest level of care to the patient.

A beta-2 agonist would be given to relieve bronchospasm associated with an acute asthma attack. Beta-2 agonists are bronchodilators that work by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, thereby opening up the air passages and making it easier to breathe. This class of medication is commonly used in the treatment of asthma and is effective in quickly relieving symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Alpha-1 agonists, beta-1 agonists, and alpha-2 agonists do not have the same bronchodilating effects as beta-2 agonists and are not typically used in the treatment of asthma.

Psychotherapeutic medications primarily work by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, motivation, and pleasure. By blocking dopamine receptors, these medications can help to regulate dopamine levels and alleviate symptoms of various mental health conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. This can result in improved mood, reduced hallucinations or delusions, and overall better mental well-being.

Synthroid is the correct answer because it is a medication commonly prescribed to patients with hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, and Synthroid is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone that helps to replace the hormones that are missing in these patients. Nexium, Compazine, and Zofran are not used to treat hypothyroidism, so they are not the correct choices.

When oxygen does not reach the cell, it is unable to undergo aerobic metabolism, which is the normal process of breaking down glucose to produce energy in the presence of oxygen. Instead, the cell switches to anaerobic metabolism, which involves breaking down glucose without the use of oxygen. This process leads to the production of lactic acid as a byproduct. Lactic acid buildup can cause muscle fatigue and soreness.

Neurogenic shock occurs when there is a loss of normal sympathetic nervous system tone. This loss of tone leads to a disruption in the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, resulting in a decrease in vascular resistance and subsequent dilation of blood vessels. This dilation causes a drop in blood pressure and can lead to symptoms such as lightheadedness, fainting, and a weak pulse. Therefore, the correct answer is neurogenic shock.

Fibrinolysis is the process of breaking down a blood clot. When a blood clot forms to prevent excessive bleeding, it needs to be dissolved once the injury has healed. Fibrinolysis involves the activation of an enzyme called plasmin, which breaks down the fibrin meshwork that holds the clot together, allowing the clot to be gradually broken down and removed by the body. Therefore, fibrinolysis is the correct term for the destruction of a blood clot.

The onset of a medication's therapeutic effect is mostly determined by the route of administration. This refers to how the medication is delivered into the body, such as orally, intravenously, or topically. The route of administration affects how quickly and efficiently the medication is absorbed and distributed throughout the body. For example, intravenous administration delivers the medication directly into the bloodstream, resulting in a rapid onset of action. In contrast, oral administration may take longer as the medication needs to be absorbed through the digestive system. Therefore, the route of administration plays a crucial role in determining when the medication will start to have its intended therapeutic effect.

Medication administration via the subcutaneous or intramuscular route is least effective in patients who have inadequate peripheral perfusion. This is because subcutaneous and intramuscular routes rely on adequate blood flow to deliver the medication to the intended site of action. If a patient has inadequate peripheral perfusion, it means there is poor blood flow to the extremities, which can hinder the absorption and distribution of the medication. As a result, the medication may not reach the target tissues or organs effectively, leading to reduced effectiveness.

The liver is responsible for most of the biotransformation process of medications. It contains enzymes that help metabolize drugs, converting them into forms that can be easily eliminated from the body. The liver's high blood flow and large surface area allow it to efficiently process and detoxify drugs. Additionally, the liver plays a crucial role in drug metabolism by producing metabolizing enzymes and transporting drugs and their metabolites. Therefore, the liver is the primary organ involved in the biotransformation of medications.

Muscular dystrophy is a condition that is characterized by weakness and wasting of groups of skeletal muscles, which progressively leads to increasing disability. This means that over time, the affected individual experiences a gradual deterioration and loss of strength in their skeletal muscles, resulting in difficulties with movement and physical functioning. As the condition progresses, the individual may become more disabled and reliant on assistance for daily activities.

The trade name of a medication refers to the brand name or the proprietary name given to a specific drug by the pharmaceutical company that manufactures it. This name is often more recognizable and commonly used by the public, which can lead to confusion as it is sometimes mistaken for the generic name. The generic name, on the other hand, is the official scientific name of the drug and is typically the same across different brands or manufacturers.

Medications should be kept out of direct sunlight because exposure to sunlight can degrade the active ingredients in the medication, leading to reduced effectiveness. Sunlight can also cause certain medications to undergo chemical changes, potentially resulting in the formation of harmful by-products. Therefore, storing medications in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight helps to maintain their potency and safety for use.

Gross distortions of reality, withdrawal from social contacts, and bizarre behavior are most characteristic of schizophrenia. This mental disorder is characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired social functioning. Individuals with schizophrenia may experience a break from reality, exhibit odd or unusual behaviors, and have difficulty in maintaining social relationships. Depression, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder may have some overlapping symptoms, but they do not typically involve the same level of severe distortions of reality and bizarre behavior as seen in schizophrenia.

Lymphocytes are the chief white blood cells involved in the immune response. They play a crucial role in recognizing and attacking foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses, and are responsible for the body's adaptive immune response. Lymphocytes are further divided into two main types: B cells, which produce antibodies, and T cells, which directly attack infected cells. This makes lymphocytes the primary defenders of the immune system and the correct answer to the question.

An agonist is a medication that stimulates a response in a receptor site. It binds to the receptor and activates it, mimicking the action of the natural ligand. Agonists have the ability to produce a biological response by activating the receptor, which can result in various physiological effects. In contrast, antagonists bind to receptors but do not activate them, blocking the action of agonists or natural ligands. Synergistic refers to the combined effect of two or more substances that is greater than the sum of their individual effects. A competitive binder competes with other substances for binding to a receptor site.

Epinephrine is a medication that stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the "fight or flight" response. It mimics the effects of the sympathetic neurotransmitters, such as adrenaline, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and bronchodilation. Therefore, the correct answer is sympathomimetic, as it describes the ability of epinephrine to mimic the sympathetic nervous system's effects.

Neurotransmission is the correct answer because it refers to the process of chemical signaling between cells, specifically nerve cells or neurons. During neurotransmission, neurotransmitters are released from the presynaptic neuron, travel across the synapse, and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, transmitting signals and allowing for communication between cells. Antagonism refers to the inhibition or blocking of a biological response, chemotransmission is not a recognized term, and nerve innervation refers to the supply of nerves to a specific area or organ, which is not the same as chemical signaling.

Fentanyl (sublimaze) is an opioid analgesic. Opioid analgesics are medications that work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body to reduce pain perception. Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is commonly used for managing severe pain, such as during surgery or for patients with chronic pain. It is much stronger than other opioids like morphine or oxycodone, making it effective for severe pain relief but also increasing the risk of overdose and addiction.

Epinephrine stimulation of beta-2 receptors causes the airway diameter to dilate. Epinephrine is a hormone that acts as a bronchodilator, meaning it relaxes the smooth muscles in the airways, leading to an increase in the diameter of the airway. This dilation allows for easier airflow and improved breathing. This effect is particularly beneficial in conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), where the airways are constricted and narrowed.

When a medication is administered to a patient with renal insufficiency, their kidneys are not functioning properly, which can lead to inefficient excretion of the medication from the body. As a result, the medication may accumulate in the body to toxic levels, increasing the risk of adverse effects. This is why it is important to monitor medication doses and adjust them accordingly in patients with renal insufficiency.

The sublingual route of medication administration involves placing the medication under the tongue where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. This route is slower than the intravenous route, where the medication is directly injected into the vein, allowing for immediate absorption. However, it is faster than the oral route, where the medication has to pass through the digestive system before being absorbed. Therefore, the correct answer is intravenous, oral.

A medication that possesses a negative chronotropic effect will cause a decrease in the heart rate. This means that the medication will slow down the heart's rhythm and reduce the number of contractions per minute. This can be beneficial in certain medical conditions where a slower heart rate is desired, such as in the treatment of high blood pressure or certain heart conditions.

The storage requirements of a medication are not a required component of a medication profile. A medication profile typically includes information such as the mechanism of action, side and adverse effects, and indications and proper dosage of a medication. However, storage requirements, such as temperature or light sensitivity, are important for maintaining the effectiveness and safety of the medication but are not typically included in a medication profile.

Peptic ulcer disease is characterized by erosions in the mucous membrane lining of the gastrointestinal tract. This condition typically occurs in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum. The erosions are caused by the excessive production of stomach acid or a decrease in the protective lining of the stomach and duodenum. Symptoms of peptic ulcer disease include abdominal pain, bloating, heartburn, and nausea. It can be caused by factors such as infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Treatment may involve medications to reduce stomach acid production, antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori infection, and lifestyle changes.

Adrenergic nerve fibers release epinephrine and norepinephrine. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters that belong to the class of catecholamines. They are released by the adrenergic nerve fibers and play a crucial role in the sympathetic nervous system. These neurotransmitters are involved in the "fight or flight" response, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and energy availability. They also have various effects on different organs and tissues in the body, helping to mobilize energy reserves and prepare the body for physical activity or stress.

The IO route of medication administration is identical to the IV route in terms of absorption rate because the medication enters a noncollapsible channel with rapid flow into the central circulation. This means that the medication is quickly and efficiently delivered to the bloodstream, resulting in a similar absorption rate as the IV route.

Severe, prolonged stress can cause the body to lose its ability to fight. When the body is under constant stress, the immune system becomes weakened, making it more difficult for the body to defend itself against illnesses and diseases. This can lead to a higher susceptibility to infections and other health problems, ultimately compromising the body's ability to fight off harmful agents.

Schedule 2 drugs are classified as such because they have accepted medical uses. This means that these drugs have been recognized by medical professionals as having legitimate therapeutic benefits and can be prescribed by doctors in certain situations. However, despite their medical uses, schedule 2 drugs also have a higher abuse potential compared to schedule 1 drugs. This implies that they have a greater likelihood of being misused or causing addiction. Therefore, the correct answer is "accepted medical uses."

MODS occurs when injury or infection triggers a massive systemic immune, inflammatory, and coagulation response. This statement is the most correct because it accurately describes the underlying cause of MODS. MODS is a condition in which multiple organs in the body fail as a result of a systemic response to injury or infection. This response involves the activation of the immune system, inflammation, and abnormal blood clotting. It is not typically associated with the other mentioned characteristics such as a specific time frame of development, specific metabolic changes, or specific signs and symptoms.

Emergency medications that affect the heart and blood vessels do so via the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions, including the heart rate, blood pressure, and blood vessel constriction or dilation. In emergency situations, medications are often used to quickly modulate these functions to stabilize the patient. The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements, while the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for rest and digestion. Therefore, the autonomic nervous system is the correct answer in this context.

Distributive shock occurs when blood pools in expanded vascular beds and tissue perfusion decreases. In this type of shock, there is a widespread vasodilation, causing the blood to accumulate in the peripheral blood vessels. As a result, there is a decrease in blood flow to vital organs and tissues, leading to inadequate perfusion. This can be caused by various factors such as sepsis, anaphylaxis, or neurogenic conditions. The pooling of blood in the expanded vascular beds contributes to the decreased tissue perfusion seen in distributive shock.

Enfuviritide is a medication used for the treatment of HIV infection. It is a type of antiretroviral drug known as a fusion inhibitor, which works by preventing the HIV virus from entering human cells. Therefore, if a patient is taking Enfuviritide, it strongly suggests that they have HIV infection.

Obstructive shock occurs when there is a blockage in the heart or great vessels, leading to a decrease in blood flow. This can be caused by conditions such as pulmonary embolism, cardiac tamponade, or tension pneumothorax. The blockage prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood, resulting in inadequate perfusion to the body's organs and tissues. This type of shock requires immediate medical intervention to remove the obstruction and restore normal blood flow.

The term "onset of action" refers to the time it takes for a medication to start producing its desired effect in the body. In this context, it specifically refers to the time it takes for the concentration of the medication to reach a minimum effective level at its target tissue. This is an important consideration in medication administration as it helps determine when the medication will begin to work and how quickly it will produce the desired therapeutic effect.

Sympatholytic medications are drugs that inhibit the sympathetic nervous system. This means that they block the action of alpha receptors, which are responsible for activating the sympathetic nervous system. By inhibiting the sympathetic nervous system, these medications reduce the effects of sympathetic stimulation, such as increased heart rate (tachycardia) and elevated blood pressure (hypertension). Therefore, the correct answer is that sympatholytic medications inhibit the sympathetic nervous system.

To cause negative inotropic effects on the heart, you would have to administer a beta-1 adrenergic antagonist. Beta-1 adrenergic receptors are primarily located in the heart, and their activation increases heart rate and contractility. By blocking these receptors, beta-1 adrenergic antagonists decrease heart rate and contractility, leading to negative inotropic effects. Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, beta-2 adrenergic agonists, and alpha-1 adrenergic antagonists do not directly cause negative inotropic effects on the heart.

A child's immune system is not fully developed until he or she is between 2 and 3 years old. During this time, the immune system undergoes significant development and maturation, allowing the child to better fight off infections and diseases. This is why children are more susceptible to illnesses during their early years and why it is important to take extra precautions to protect their health.

The correct answer is absorption is slow and unpredictable. This means that the medication takes a long time to be absorbed into the bloodstream and the rate of absorption can vary from person to person. This is important because if the medication is not absorbed properly, it may not be effective in treating the condition it is intended for.

ACE inhibitors work by suppressing the conversion of angiotensin 1 to angiotensin 2. Angiotensin 2 is a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict and stimulates the release of aldosterone, which leads to fluid retention and increased blood pressure. By inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin 1 to angiotensin 2, ACE inhibitors help to relax blood vessels, reduce fluid retention, and ultimately lower blood pressure.

An injection of immunoglobulin refers to the administration of pre-formed antibodies from an external source. This provides immediate protection against a specific pathogen or toxin, without the need for the body to produce its own antibodies. This type of immunity is called passive acquired immunity because the individual receives ready-made antibodies rather than producing them themselves. It is temporary and does not provide long-term protection.

The correct answer is central and peripheral nervous system. The nervous system is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, which are responsible for processing and coordinating information. The PNS includes all the nerves that extend from the CNS to the rest of the body, allowing for communication between the CNS and the organs, muscles, and sensory receptors. This division allows for the efficient functioning of the nervous system by separating the processing and integration of information from the transmission of signals to and from the body.

The correct answer states that prescription-only medications (POM) can be given over-the-counter (OTC) status if they are considered safe enough that most people will not hurt themselves accidentally by taking the medicine as instructed. This means that the medication should have a low risk of causing harm or adverse effects when used correctly. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring the safety of the general public when medications are made available without a prescription.

A medication carrying the USP label must have its active ingredients within a specific range of 95% to 105% of what is stated on the label. This ensures that the medication is consistent in its composition and potency, providing the expected therapeutic effect to patients. This requirement helps to maintain quality and safety standards for medications available to the public.

Overstimulation of muscarinic receptors leads to excessive lacrimation (excessive tearing), bradycardia (slow heart rate), diarrhea, and miosis (constriction of the pupil). This is because muscarinic receptors are found in various tissues and organs, including the eyes, heart, gastrointestinal tract, and smooth muscles of the iris. Activation of these receptors causes increased tear production, slowing of the heart rate, increased intestinal motility leading to diarrhea, and constriction of the pupil.

The official name for amiodarone is "amiodarone USP" because USP stands for United States Pharmacopeia, which is an official compendium of drug standards recognized in the United States. This indicates that the drug meets the quality standards set by the USP. The other options, "cordarone" and "amiodaron," are brand names or alternative names for amiodarone, while the long chemical name provided is the chemical composition of amiodarone.