NSG 318 EXAM 3 QUESTIONS,
ANSWERS AND CORRECT
EXPLANATION TO THE ANSWERS
What is the mechanism of action of diphenhydramine
(Benadryl), an antihistamine?
It blocks H1 receptors, reducing histamine-mediated
allergic symptoms.
Explanation: Diphenhydramine works by inhibiting the
action of histamine at H1 receptor sites, reducing allergic
reactions such as sneezing, itching, and rhinorrhea.
What is a common side effect of diphenhydramine
(Benadryl)?
Drowsiness.
Explanation: Due to its sedative effects, diphenhydramine
is commonly associated with drowsiness, making it
effective as a sleep aid but limiting its use during activities
requiring alertness.
What is the mechanism of action of dextromethorphan
(Robitussin), an antitussive?
It suppresses the cough reflex in the medulla.
Explanation: Dextromethorphan acts on the cough center
in the medulla to suppress nonproductive cough, without
analgesic or addictive properties.
What is a potential adverse effect of
dextromethorphan (Robitussin)?
Dizziness and nausea.
,Explanation: Dextromethorphan can cause central
nervous system (CNS) effects such as dizziness and
gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea.
How does albuterol (a Beta2-adrenergic agonist)
relieve bronchospasm in asthma?
It stimulates Beta2 receptors, causing bronchodilation.
Explanation: Albuterol activates Beta2 receptors in
bronchial smooth muscle, leading to relaxation and
opening of airways, thus relieving asthma symptoms.
What is a serious adverse effect of albuterol when
used in high doses?
Tachycardia.
Explanation: Although primarily targeting the lungs,
Beta2-adrenergic agonists like albuterol can also affect the
heart, causing increased heart rate (tachycardia) when
overdosed.
What is the mechanism of action of tiotropium
(Spiriva), an anticholinergic?
It blocks muscarinic receptors, leading to bronchodilation.
Explanation: Tiotropium inhibits muscarinic cholinergic
receptors in the lungs, which reduces bronchoconstriction,
improving airflow in conditions like COPD.
What is a common side effect of tiotropium (Spiriva)?
Dry mouth.
Explanation: Anticholinergic agents like tiotropium reduce
secretions, leading to common side effects such as dry
mouth.
How does montelukast (Singulair), a leukotriene
receptor antagonist, manage asthma symptoms?
It blocks leukotriene receptors, reducing inflammation and
bronchoconstriction.
, Explanation: By inhibiting leukotriene pathways,
montelukast reduces airway inflammation and prevents
bronchoconstriction, improving asthma control.
Which herb should be avoided when taking
montelukast (Singulair)?
St. John's Wort.
Explanation: St. John's Wort can induce hepatic enzymes
and decrease the effectiveness of montelukast, reducing
its control over asthma symptoms.
Which herb is commonly used to alleviate symptoms
of upper respiratory disorders?
Echinacea.
Explanation: Echinacea is often used as a natural
remedy for colds and upper respiratory infections, thought
to enhance immune function.
Which herb should be avoided when taking albuterol
due to potential interaction?
Ephedra.
Explanation: Ephedra can exacerbate the stimulant
effects of albuterol, increasing the risk of adverse effects
like tachycardia and hypertension.
What is the primary action of digoxin, a cardiac
glycoside?
It increases the force of myocardial contraction.
Explanation: Digoxin enhances cardiac output by
increasing myocardial contractility (positive inotropic
effect), which helps in heart failure and atrial fibrillation.
What is an early sign of digoxin toxicity?
Nausea and vomiting.
ANSWERS AND CORRECT
EXPLANATION TO THE ANSWERS
What is the mechanism of action of diphenhydramine
(Benadryl), an antihistamine?
It blocks H1 receptors, reducing histamine-mediated
allergic symptoms.
Explanation: Diphenhydramine works by inhibiting the
action of histamine at H1 receptor sites, reducing allergic
reactions such as sneezing, itching, and rhinorrhea.
What is a common side effect of diphenhydramine
(Benadryl)?
Drowsiness.
Explanation: Due to its sedative effects, diphenhydramine
is commonly associated with drowsiness, making it
effective as a sleep aid but limiting its use during activities
requiring alertness.
What is the mechanism of action of dextromethorphan
(Robitussin), an antitussive?
It suppresses the cough reflex in the medulla.
Explanation: Dextromethorphan acts on the cough center
in the medulla to suppress nonproductive cough, without
analgesic or addictive properties.
What is a potential adverse effect of
dextromethorphan (Robitussin)?
Dizziness and nausea.
,Explanation: Dextromethorphan can cause central
nervous system (CNS) effects such as dizziness and
gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea.
How does albuterol (a Beta2-adrenergic agonist)
relieve bronchospasm in asthma?
It stimulates Beta2 receptors, causing bronchodilation.
Explanation: Albuterol activates Beta2 receptors in
bronchial smooth muscle, leading to relaxation and
opening of airways, thus relieving asthma symptoms.
What is a serious adverse effect of albuterol when
used in high doses?
Tachycardia.
Explanation: Although primarily targeting the lungs,
Beta2-adrenergic agonists like albuterol can also affect the
heart, causing increased heart rate (tachycardia) when
overdosed.
What is the mechanism of action of tiotropium
(Spiriva), an anticholinergic?
It blocks muscarinic receptors, leading to bronchodilation.
Explanation: Tiotropium inhibits muscarinic cholinergic
receptors in the lungs, which reduces bronchoconstriction,
improving airflow in conditions like COPD.
What is a common side effect of tiotropium (Spiriva)?
Dry mouth.
Explanation: Anticholinergic agents like tiotropium reduce
secretions, leading to common side effects such as dry
mouth.
How does montelukast (Singulair), a leukotriene
receptor antagonist, manage asthma symptoms?
It blocks leukotriene receptors, reducing inflammation and
bronchoconstriction.
, Explanation: By inhibiting leukotriene pathways,
montelukast reduces airway inflammation and prevents
bronchoconstriction, improving asthma control.
Which herb should be avoided when taking
montelukast (Singulair)?
St. John's Wort.
Explanation: St. John's Wort can induce hepatic enzymes
and decrease the effectiveness of montelukast, reducing
its control over asthma symptoms.
Which herb is commonly used to alleviate symptoms
of upper respiratory disorders?
Echinacea.
Explanation: Echinacea is often used as a natural
remedy for colds and upper respiratory infections, thought
to enhance immune function.
Which herb should be avoided when taking albuterol
due to potential interaction?
Ephedra.
Explanation: Ephedra can exacerbate the stimulant
effects of albuterol, increasing the risk of adverse effects
like tachycardia and hypertension.
What is the primary action of digoxin, a cardiac
glycoside?
It increases the force of myocardial contraction.
Explanation: Digoxin enhances cardiac output by
increasing myocardial contractility (positive inotropic
effect), which helps in heart failure and atrial fibrillation.
What is an early sign of digoxin toxicity?
Nausea and vomiting.
