Graded Nurse Practitioner Board Review | 200 Practice Questions for NP Certification |
Pharmacology, Diagnostics, Clinical Management, Emergency Care, Pediatrics, Geriatrics,
Health Promotion & Physical Assessment
Section 1: Pharmacology (Questions 1–30)
1. A 55-year-old patient with hypertension is prescribed hydrochlorothiazide.
Which electrolyte imbalance should be monitored?
A. Hyperkalemia
B. Hypokalemia
C. Hypernatremia
D. Hypercalcemia
Correct Answer: B – Hypokalemia
Explanation: Thiazide diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide) cause potassium loss through the
kidneys, leading to hypokalemia. Monitor potassium levels and educate the patient on
potassium-rich foods such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes .
2. A patient with atrial fibrillation is prescribed warfarin. Which lab test is used to
monitor therapy?
A. PT/INR
B. aPTT
C. Platelet count
D. Hemoglobin
Correct Answer: A – PT/INR
,Explanation: Warfarin affects vitamin K-dependent clotting factors (II, VII, IX, X). PT/INR is
the standard test to monitor anticoagulation effectiveness. Target INR is typically 2-3 for
atrial fibrillation .
3. A patient with chronic heart failure is prescribed digoxin. The nurse should
educate about:
A. Signs of hypoglycemia
B. Signs of digoxin toxicity (nausea, vision changes, arrhythmias)
C. Increased urination
D. Increased appetite
Correct Answer: B – Signs of digoxin toxicity (nausea, vision changes, arrhythmias)
Explanation: Digoxin has a narrow therapeutic index. Toxicity signs include nausea,
vomiting, anorexia, visual changes (yellow-green halos, blurred vision), and cardiac
arrhythmias (bradycardia, heart block, PVCs) .
4. Which antihypertensive is considered first-line in diabetic patients?
A. Beta-blockers
B. ACE inhibitors
C. Thiazide diuretics
D. Calcium channel blockers
Correct Answer: B – ACE inhibitors
Explanation: ACE inhibitors (and ARBs) are preferred in diabetic patients because they
protect renal function by reducing intraglomerular pressure and slowing the progression
of diabetic nephropathy .
,5. A patient is prescribed albuterol inhaler PRN. The main adverse effect to
monitor is:
A. Bradycardia
B. Tachycardia and tremor
C. Hypotension
D. Constipation
Correct Answer: B – Tachycardia and tremor
Explanation: Albuterol is a beta-2 agonist that can also stimulate beta-1 receptors at
higher doses, causing tachycardia and fine tremors. Patients should be educated about
these expected side effects .
6. A patient on digoxin presents with nausea, blurred vision, and arrhythmia.
These are signs of:
A. Hypokalemia
B. Digoxin toxicity
C. Hyperthyroidism
D. Hyponatremia
Correct Answer: B – Digoxin toxicity
Explanation: Digoxin toxicity manifests as GI symptoms (nausea, vomiting, anorexia),
visual disturbances (blurred vision, yellow-green halos), and cardiac arrhythmias. Risk
factors include hypokalemia, renal impairment, and drug interactions .
, 7. First-line treatment for type 2 diabetes without complications:
A. Sulfonylurea
B. Metformin
C. Insulin
D. GLP-1 agonist
Correct Answer: B – Metformin
Explanation: Metformin is first-line for type 2 diabetes unless contraindicated (eGFR <30
mL/min, metabolic acidosis). It improves insulin sensitivity, reduces hepatic
gluconeogenesis, and does not cause weight gain or hypoglycemia .
8. Which antibiotic covers both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and is
often used for severe infections?
A. Amoxicillin
B. Piperacillin-tazobactam
C. Vancomycin
D. Azithromycin
Correct Answer: B – Piperacillin-tazobactam
Explanation: Piperacillin-tazobactam (Zosyn) is a broad-spectrum beta-lactam/beta-
lactamase inhibitor combination covering gram-positive, gram-negative, and anaerobic
bacteria. It is used for severe hospital-acquired and polymicrobial infections .
9. Which of the following medications requires monitoring of renal function and
can cause interstitial nephritis?
A. Metformin