NSG 533 Exam 2 | Analgesia & Pain Pharmacology / NSG
533 / NSG533 Exam 2 (Advanced Pharmacology –
Wilkes) – Actual Questions & Verified Answers PDF
Wilkes University | Verified Answers
1. What would you be concerned with regarding an elderly patient's use of
Vicodin in terms of acetaminophen dose?
---Answer---: In elderly patients, it is recommended not to exceed 3,000
mg per day of acetaminophen.
---Rationale---: Older adults have significantly increased risk of
hepatotoxicity from acetaminophen, especially with chronic use or underlying
liver impairment. Since Vicodin contains both hydrocodone and acetaminophen,
the total daily dose from all sources must be monitored closely to avoid accidental
overdose.
2. What medication could you recommend for a diabetic patient in pain that
could also be used to help treat depression?
---Answer---: SNRIs such as duloxetine or venlafaxine.
---Rationale---: Both duloxetine and venlafaxine are first line for diabetic
peripheral neuropathy, and also treat major depression. This addresses both
comorbid conditions with a single agent.
3. List the first line non-opioid medications for neuropathic pain:
---Answer---: Gabapentin, pregabalin, transdermal lidocaine, and tricyclic
antidepressants.
533 / NSG533 Exam 2 (Advanced Pharmacology –
Wilkes) – Actual Questions & Verified Answers PDF
Wilkes University | Verified Answers
1. What would you be concerned with regarding an elderly patient's use of
Vicodin in terms of acetaminophen dose?
---Answer---: In elderly patients, it is recommended not to exceed 3,000
mg per day of acetaminophen.
---Rationale---: Older adults have significantly increased risk of
hepatotoxicity from acetaminophen, especially with chronic use or underlying
liver impairment. Since Vicodin contains both hydrocodone and acetaminophen,
the total daily dose from all sources must be monitored closely to avoid accidental
overdose.
2. What medication could you recommend for a diabetic patient in pain that
could also be used to help treat depression?
---Answer---: SNRIs such as duloxetine or venlafaxine.
---Rationale---: Both duloxetine and venlafaxine are first line for diabetic
peripheral neuropathy, and also treat major depression. This addresses both
comorbid conditions with a single agent.
3. List the first line non-opioid medications for neuropathic pain:
---Answer---: Gabapentin, pregabalin, transdermal lidocaine, and tricyclic
antidepressants.
