Pharmacy Tech Quiz – Interpreting & Processing Rx

Reviewed by Editorial Team
The ProProfs editorial team is comprised of experienced subject matter experts. They've collectively created over 10,000 quizzes and lessons, serving over 100 million users. Our team includes in-house content moderators and subject matter experts, as well as a global network of rigorously trained contributors. All adhere to our comprehensive editorial guidelines, ensuring the delivery of high-quality content.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Ashleycream
A
Ashleycream
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 16 | Total Attempts: 75,742
| Attempts: 567 | Questions: 46
Please wait...
Question 1 / 46
0 %
0/100
Score 0/100
1. Subcutaneously

Explanation

The correct answer is "sc" which stands for subcutaneously. This term refers to the administration of medication or injection into the subcutaneous tissue, which is the layer of fat just beneath the skin. This route of administration allows for the slow and gradual absorption of the medication into the bloodstream. It is commonly used for the administration of vaccines, insulin, and some other medications.

Submit
Please wait...
About This Quiz
Pharmacy Quizzes & Trivia

Prescription processing is one of the most essential responsibilities in pharmacy practice. This Pharmacy Technician Prescriptions Quiz tests your knowledge of interpreting prescription components, common medical abbreviations, required labeling elements, controlled substance regulations, and legal requirements.

Perfect for PTCB or ExCPT exam prep, this quiz reinforces the daily tasks... see morepharmacy techs perform while ensuring patient safety and compliance. Whether you're a student or reviewing for work, this is a must-know topic.

Disclaimer: This quiz is for educational review and exam preparation only. It is not affiliated with any official certification or regulatory authority. see less

Personalize your quiz and earn a certificate with your name on it!
2. Four times a day

Explanation

The correct answer is "qid" because it stands for "four times a day" which matches the given phrase "four times a day".

Submit
3. Every 12 hours

Explanation

The correct answer, "q12hr," is an abbreviation used in medical terminology to indicate the frequency of a medication dosage. "q" stands for "every," and "12hr" represents 12 hours. Therefore, "q12hr" means that the medication should be taken every 12 hours. This abbreviation is commonly used in healthcare settings to ensure proper dosing instructions are communicated clearly and efficiently.

Submit
4. The directions on a medication are: 1 gtt ou hs this medication is:

Explanation

The abbreviation "ou" stands for "oculus uterque" which means "both eyes" in Latin. "hs" stands for "hora somni" which means "at bedtime" in Latin. "gtt" stands for "guttae" which means "drops" in Latin. Therefore, "1 gtt ou hs" means "1 drop in both eyes at bedtime". This indicates that the medication is an eye drop and is to be used twice a day, specifically at bedtime.

Submit
5. Medications that do not require a prescription but may be filled with one

Explanation

The correct answer is OTC drugs. OTC stands for "over-the-counter," which refers to medications that can be purchased without a prescription. These drugs are typically considered safe for use without the supervision of a healthcare professional. They are available in pharmacies and other retail stores and can be filled by anyone without the need for a prescription.

Submit
6. Drop

Explanation

not-available-via-ai

Submit
7. As needed

Explanation

"prn" is an abbreviation commonly used in medical contexts, particularly in medication prescriptions. It stands for "pro re nata," which is Latin for "as needed." This term indicates that the medication should be taken or administered only when necessary, based on the patient's symptoms or condition. Therefore, "prn" is the correct answer as it accurately represents the concept of taking medication as required.

Submit
8. A  medication error may involve

Explanation

This question is asking about the potential elements involved in a medication error. The correct answer is "all of the above" because a medication error can occur when the wrong dosage form, wrong directions, or wrong patient are involved. This means that any of these factors can contribute to a medication error, highlighting the importance of ensuring accuracy and attention to detail in prescribing and administering medications.

Submit
9. A federal act that, among other things protects the privacy of  individuals and the sharing of protected health information

Explanation

HIPPA is the correct answer because it is a federal act that protects the privacy of individuals and regulates the sharing of protected health information. The act sets standards for the security and confidentiality of patient information, ensuring that healthcare providers and organizations handle sensitive data appropriately. HIPPA also gives patients control over their health information and provides them with rights to access and amend their records. Overall, HIPPA aims to safeguard the privacy and security of personal health information and promote trust between patients and healthcare providers.

Submit
10. ____  are allowed to write some prescription in some states, as determined by protocols and collaboration with a primary prescriber

Explanation

Pharmacists, nurse practitioners, and/or physician assistants are allowed to write some prescriptions in certain states through protocols and collaboration with a primary prescriber. This means that these healthcare professionals can prescribe medications under certain circumstances and in accordance with specific guidelines. This expanded scope of practice allows for increased access to healthcare services and can help alleviate the burden on primary prescribers such as medical doctors and doctors of osteopathy. However, it is important to note that the specific regulations and protocols may vary from state to state.

Submit
11. Twice a day

Explanation

The correct answer is "bid," which stands for "bis in die" in Latin, meaning "twice a day." It is a medical abbreviation commonly used to indicate the frequency of medication dosage.

Submit
12. A written, verbal or electronic order from a practitioner for the preparation and administration of a medicine or a device

Explanation

A prescription is a written, verbal, or electronic order from a practitioner that authorizes the preparation and administration of a medicine or device. It serves as a legal document that outlines the specific medication, dosage, and instructions for the patient. A prescription ensures that the medication is dispensed safely and accurately, and it also allows the pharmacist to provide appropriate counseling and guidance to the patient.

Submit
13. Drugs that have been shown to be subject to abuse and require special handling

Explanation

Schedule II drugs are drugs that have been shown to be subject to abuse and require special handling. Unlike over-the-counter drugs (OTC) which can be purchased without a prescription, Schedule II drugs require a prescription from a healthcare professional. These drugs have a high potential for abuse and can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. They are tightly regulated and strict controls are in place to ensure their safe handling and distribution.

Submit
14. Under the tongue

Explanation

SL stands for sublingual, which refers to the administration of medication under the tongue. This route allows for rapid absorption of the medication into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. It is often used for medications that need to be quickly absorbed and have a systemic effect.

Submit
15. The directions for use on a prescription that should be printed on all labels

Explanation

The correct answer is "signa, sig". In medical prescriptions, "signa" or "sig" is a Latin abbreviation that refers to the directions for use of the medication. It provides instructions to the patient on how to take the medication, including dosage, frequency, and any specific instructions. Therefore, it is important for these directions to be printed on all prescription labels to ensure that patients understand how to properly take their medication.

Submit
16. Microgram

Explanation

The correct answer is "mcg" because it is the abbreviation commonly used for micrograms. Micrograms are a unit of measurement used to represent a very small amount, one millionth of a gram. The abbreviation "mcg" is derived from the Greek word "micro" meaning small, and the "g" represents grams. Therefore, "mcg" is the appropriate abbreviation for micrograms.

Submit
17. Counseling as requried by OBRA  90, IS PROVIDED BY

Explanation

Counseling as required by OBRA 90 is provided by pharmacists. OBRA 90 refers to the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990, which mandates that pharmacists must offer counseling to patients regarding their medications. This counseling includes information about the proper use, potential side effects, and any other relevant information about the prescribed drugs. Pharmacists are trained professionals who have extensive knowledge about medications and can effectively communicate this information to patients, ensuring their safety and understanding.

Submit
18. Every day

Explanation

The abbreviation "qd" stands for "quaque die" in Latin, which translates to "every day" in English. Therefore, the correct answer is "qd" because it represents the frequency of an event occurring daily.

Submit
19. The two drug names Accupril 40mg and Accutane 40mg exemplify

Explanation

The two drug names, Accupril 40mg and Accutane 40mg, exemplify look-alike names. Look-alike names refer to drug names that are similar in spelling or pronunciation, which can lead to confusion and medication errors. In this case, the names "Accupril" and "Accutane" are very similar and could easily be mistaken for one another, potentially resulting in incorrect medication administration.

Submit
20. RX:  Amoxil 250mg/5ml         Sig: 1tsp tid x10d          M:  qs this medication should be taken

Explanation

The correct answer is three times daily. The prescription states "Sig: 1tsp tid x10d," which means to take one teaspoon of the medication three times a day for ten days.

Submit
21. Required on all controlled drug prescriptions  identifies the prescriber

Explanation

The correct answer is DEA number. The DEA number is required on all controlled drug prescriptions to identify the prescriber. This number is issued by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to healthcare providers who are authorized to prescribe controlled substances. It helps to ensure that only licensed professionals are prescribing these medications and helps to track and monitor the distribution of controlled substances. The DEA number is an important tool in preventing drug abuse and diversion.

Submit
22. The on-demand preparation of a drug product according to a  physician's prescription, formula, or recipe

Explanation

Extemporaneous compounding refers to the process of preparing a drug product based on a physician's prescription, formula, or recipe. This method allows for the customized preparation of medications to meet specific patient needs. It involves combining and mixing the necessary ingredients in the required proportions to create the desired dosage form. This approach is often used when commercially available medications are not suitable or when a specific formulation is required for a particular patient.

Submit
23. If a prescription is written for: Zoloft 100mg DAW this means that

Explanation

The prescription "Zoloft 100mg DAW" indicates that the brand name medication, Zoloft, must be dispensed to the patient. The term "DAW" stands for "dispense as written," which means that the prescriber specifically wants the brand name medication to be provided to the patient, rather than a generic alternative. This could be due to various reasons, such as the patient's preference, specific instructions from the prescriber, or insurance requirements.

Submit
24. Vaginally

Explanation

not-available-via-ai

Submit
25. Mechanism by which a prescriber may indicate that the brand product, and not the equivalent generic, must be dispensed

Explanation

The correct answer is DAW, which stands for Dispense as Written. DAW is a code that a prescriber can use on a prescription to indicate that the brand product must be dispensed instead of the generic equivalent. This may be necessary if the prescriber believes that the generic version may not be as effective for the patient or if the patient specifically requests the brand product. By using the DAW code, the prescriber ensures that the pharmacy will dispense the exact brand product that they have prescribed.

Submit
26. All of the following duties may be performed by a pharmacy tech except

Explanation

A pharmacy tech is responsible for various duties in a pharmacy setting. These include requesting PHI from a patient, inputting and updating patient information in the computer, and placing medication in a vial with a prescription label. However, selecting an over-the-counter (OTC) product for a patient is typically not within the scope of a pharmacy tech's responsibilities. This task is usually performed by a pharmacist or a trained pharmacy staff member.

Submit
27. Each eye

Explanation

The given answer "ou" is the correct answer because it represents the phrase "both eyes" in French. In French, "ou" means "or" but in this context, it is used to indicate "both" when referring to eyes. Therefore, "ou" is the appropriate choice to convey the meaning of "both eyes" in French.

Submit
28. When the directions for a Rx are unclear, the pharmacy tech should

Explanation

When the directions for a prescription are unclear, it is important for the pharmacy technician to seek clarification from the pharmacist. The pharmacist has the knowledge and expertise to interpret and understand the prescription instructions accurately. By asking the pharmacist, the technician ensures that the prescription is filled correctly and that the patient receives the appropriate medication and dosage. This step is crucial to avoid any potential errors or misunderstandings in the prescription.

Submit
29. Rx:  Clarithromycin  500mg         #20, 1bid whats the sig?

Explanation

The sig "1 bid" indicates that the medication should be taken once a day. The dosage of the medication is 500mg, and the medication in question is Clarithromycin. The prescription is for a total of 20 tablets.

Submit
30. Dicrections for use should start with a /an

Explanation

The given answer "verb" is the correct answer because the question asks for the type of word that should start the "directions for use" and a verb is a word that expresses an action or a state of being. In this case, the "directions for use" should start with a verb to indicate the action or instructions that need to be followed.

Submit
31. At bedtime

Explanation

The correct answer is "hs." This is likely an abbreviation for "hours of sleep" or "bedtime routine." When someone says "hs" at bedtime, it could mean that they are referring to the time they usually go to sleep or the activities they do before going to bed. It could also be a reminder to take care of their health and prioritize getting enough sleep.

Submit
32. The unique identifying number of a drug is the

Explanation

The correct answer is NDC. NDC stands for National Drug Code, which is a unique identifying number assigned to each drug. This code is used for tracking and identifying drugs in the United States. It consists of three segments: the labeler code, the product code, and the package code. The NDC helps in ensuring accurate and efficient drug identification, distribution, and reimbursement processes.

Submit
33. Right ear

Explanation

The given sequence consists of pairs of letters. The first letter in each pair is the first letter of the word "right", while the second letter is the second letter of the word "ear". Therefore, the correct pair is "ad".

Submit
34. After food, with meals

Explanation

The correct answer is "pc" which stands for "post cibum" or "after food". This term is commonly used in medical prescriptions to indicate that a medication should be taken after meals. Taking medication after food helps to reduce the risk of stomach irritation or side effects that may occur on an empty stomach. It also helps to enhance the absorption and effectiveness of certain medications.

Submit
35. All of the following are examples of PHI except the

Explanation

The pharmacy address is not considered Protected Health Information (PHI) because it does not directly identify the patient or contain any personal health information. PHI includes sensitive data such as the patient's insurance identification number, address, and date of birth, which can be used to identify an individual and potentially compromise their privacy. However, the pharmacy address is not linked to an individual's health information and therefore does not fall under the category of PHI.

Submit
36. Unique national identification number required for all health care providers

Explanation

The National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a unique national identification number that is required for all healthcare providers. It is used to identify individual healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals, in order to facilitate accurate and secure electronic transactions in the healthcare industry. The NPI helps to ensure that patient information is properly managed and protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations. The DEA number, on the other hand, is a unique identifier specifically for healthcare providers who prescribe controlled substances, while DAW refers to the Dispense as Written code.

Submit
37. Rx:  prednisone 5mg tab        Sig: 5 bid x 2 days,               4 bid x 2 days,               3 bid x 2 days,               2 bid x 2 days,               1 bid x 2 days. the  stop,  M: sq the number of tablets to dispense is:

Explanation

The prescription is for prednisone 5mg tablets to be taken at different dosages over a period of 10 days. The instructions indicate that the patient should take 5 tablets per day for the first 2 days, then decrease the dosage by 1 tablet every 2 days until the final 2 days when they take 1 tablet per day. To calculate the total number of tablets needed, we add up the number of tablets for each dosage: 5 tablets x 2 days + 4 tablets x 2 days + 3 tablets x 2 days + 2 tablets x 2 days + 1 tablet x 2 days = 60 tablets. Therefore, the correct answer is 60.

Submit
38. RX:  Amoxil 250mg/5ml         Sig: 1tsp tid x10d          M:  qs the amount of medication to be dispensed is:

Explanation

The correct answer is 150 ml because the prescription states that the patient should take 1 teaspoon (5 ml) three times a day for 10 days. Therefore, the total amount of medication needed for the entire course of treatment would be 5 ml x 3 times a day x 10 days = 150 ml.

Submit
39. RX:  methotrexate 2.5mg tabs         ii/vi po q week #24" the days supply is

Explanation

The correct answer is 28 days. The prescription indicates that the patient should take methotrexate 2.5mg tablets orally, twice a week, for a total of 24 weeks. Since there are 7 days in a week, the patient will need 2 tablets per week. Therefore, the number of tablets needed for 24 weeks is 2 tablets/week x 24 weeks = 48 tablets. Since the prescription specifies a 2.5mg strength tablet, and there are 28 tablets in a standard pack, the days supply is calculated as 48 tablets / 2.5 tablets per day = 19.2 days, which is rounded up to 28 days.

Submit
40. For the rx; Glucophage XR 500:mg 2BID x 90 days, how many tablets are dispensed?

Explanation

Based on the given prescription, it states "Glucophage XR 500mg, 2BID x 90 days." This means that the patient is prescribed to take 2 tablets of Glucophage XR 500mg twice a day for a duration of 90 days. To calculate the total number of tablets dispensed, we multiply the number of tablets taken per day (2 tablets) by the number of days (90 days). Therefore, the correct answer is 360 tablets.

Submit
41. Which of the following may be performed only by a pharmacist

Explanation

A pharmacist is the only healthcare professional qualified to accept a return call from a prescriber's office to clarify a prescription. This task requires in-depth knowledge of medications, dosages, and potential drug interactions, which only a pharmacist possesses. Accepting a return call and clarifying a prescription ensures that the medication prescribed is safe and appropriate for the patient. Other tasks mentioned, such as approving refills, requesting refills, or verifying a patient's eligibility with an insurance company, can be performed by other healthcare professionals, such as pharmacy technicians or administrative staff, under the supervision or guidance of a pharmacist.

Submit
42. The following auxiliary label should be placed near the medication label:

Explanation

The correct answer is "shake well and refrigerate." This auxiliary label should be placed near the medication label to inform the patient that the medication needs to be shaken before use and stored in the refrigerator to maintain its effectiveness.

Submit
43. Rx:  ProAir HFA #1,        Sig: ii/ll puff q 6prn there are 200 doses in one inhaler,  the day's suppply would be

Explanation

The prescription states "Sig: ii/ll puff q 6prn" which means to take 2 puffs every 6 hours as needed. The inhaler contains 200 doses. To calculate the day's supply, we need to determine how many doses will be used in a day. If we take 2 puffs every 6 hours, that means we will take 4 puffs in a 12-hour period. Therefore, the inhaler will last for 50 days (200 doses / 4 doses per day). Since each puff delivers 90 ml of medication, the day's supply would be 4 puffs x 90 ml = 360 ml. Therefore, the given answer of 1800 ml is incorrect.

Submit
44. Medication orders in institutional setting may

Explanation

In an institutional setting, medication orders may be administered by nursing staff. This means that the nursing staff is responsible for giving the medication to the patients as per the orders given by the healthcare provider. It is important for the nursing staff to follow these orders accurately and ensure that the patients receive the correct medication at the right time. This responsibility helps in ensuring the safety and well-being of the patients in the institutional setting.

Submit
45. All of the following pharmacy personnel must be formally trained regarding HIPPAA except

Explanation

All of the listed pharmacy personnel, including the pharmacist and the pharmacy technician, must be formally trained regarding HIPAA. This is because HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is a federal law that protects the privacy and security of patients' health information. It is essential for all pharmacy personnel to understand and comply with HIPAA regulations to ensure the confidentiality of patient information. Custodial personnel, on the other hand, may not have access to patients' health information and may not require formal training regarding HIPAA. Therefore, the correct answer is "none of the above."

Submit
46. Child-proof containers are

Explanation

Child-proof containers are not required for patients aged 65 and over. This is because older adults may have difficulty opening child-proof containers due to physical limitations or conditions such as arthritis. Therefore, to ensure accessibility and ease of use for this age group, child-proof containers are not mandated for patients aged 65 and over.

Submit
View My Results

Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Jun 24, 2025 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Jun 24, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Nov 22, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Ashleycream
Cancel
  • All
    All (46)
  • Unanswered
    Unanswered ()
  • Answered
    Answered ()
Subcutaneously
Four times a day
Every 12 hours
The directions on a medication are: 1 gtt ou hs this medication is:
Medications that do not require a prescription but may be filled with...
Drop
As needed
A  medication error may involve
A federal act that, among other things protects the privacy of ...
____  are allowed to write some prescription in some states, as...
Twice a day
A written, verbal or electronic order from a practitioner for the...
Drugs that have been shown to be subject to abuse and require special...
Under the tongue
The directions for use on a prescription that should be printed on all...
Microgram
Counseling as requried by OBRA  90, IS PROVIDED BY
Every day
The two drug names Accupril 40mg and Accutane 40mg exemplify
RX:  Amoxil 250mg/5ml...
Required on all controlled drug prescriptions  identifies the...
The on-demand preparation of a drug product according to a ...
If a prescription is written for: Zoloft 100mg DAW this means that
Vaginally
Mechanism by which a prescriber may indicate that the brand product,...
All of the following duties may be performed by a pharmacy tech except
Each eye
When the directions for a Rx are unclear, the pharmacy tech should
Rx:  Clarithromycin  500mg...
Dicrections for use should start with a /an
At bedtime
The unique identifying number of a drug is the
Right ear
After food, with meals
All of the following are examples of PHI except the
Unique national identification number required for all health care...
Rx:  prednisone 5mg tab...
RX:  Amoxil 250mg/5ml...
RX:  methotrexate 2.5mg tabs...
For the rx;...
Which of the following may be performed only by a pharmacist
The following auxiliary label should be placed near the medication...
Rx:  ProAir HFA #1,...
Medication orders in institutional setting may
All of the following pharmacy personnel must be formally trained...
Child-proof containers are
Alert!

Advertisement