FC Paramedic School Drug Quiz
Questions to test your knowledge of commonly used drugs by paramedics in the field.
Not to be substituted for local medical protocols. Always consult with local medical direction before the administration of ANY drugs.
- 1.
In what scenario would you use Vasopressin?
- A.
Substituted for the first dose of Amiodarone in V-Tach w/ a pulse.
- B.
Substituted for the first or second dose of Epinephrine in cardiac arrest.
- C.
Substituted for Atropine in cardiac arrest.
- D.
Substituted for the first and second dose of Epinephrine in cardiac arrest.
Correct Answer
B. Substituted for the first or second dose of EpinepHrine in cardiac arrest.Explanation
Vasopressin 40U IV/IO push can replace the first OR second dose of Epinephrine in cardiac arrests.Rate this question:
-
- 2.
What are the indications for Morphine Sulfate?
- A.
Pain associated with AMI, isolated extremity fractures, renal colic, and burns. Can also be used for pulmonary edema.
- B.
Pain associated with AMI, head trauma, renal colic, and burns. Can also be used for pulmonary edema
- C.
Pain associated with AMI, acute abdominal pain, isolated extremity fractures, and burns. Can also be used for reduction in ICP.
- D.
Pain associated with Paramedic Class.
Correct Answer
A. Pain associated with AMI, isolated extremity fractures, renal colic, and burns. Can also be used for pulmonary edema.Explanation
Morphine Sulfate is contraindicated in acute abdominal pain, hypotension (Rate this question:
-
- 3.
What is the correct dose for Morphine Sulfate in the adult patient?
- A.
2mg/kg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes. Titrate to pain and BP >90mmHg.
- B.
0.2mg/kg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes. Titrate to pain and BP >90mmHg.
- C.
2mg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes. Titrate to pain and BP >90mmHg.
- D.
0.2mg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes. Titrate to pain and BP >90mmHg.
Correct Answer
C. 2mg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes. Titrate to pain and BP >90mmHg.Explanation
Adult: 2mg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes. Titrate to pain and maintain systolic BP >90mmHg, up to a maximum dose of 10mg.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
What is the correct dose for Morphine Sulfate in the pediatric patient?
- A.
0.1mg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes.
- B.
0.1mg/kg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes.
- C.
1mg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes.
- D.
1mg/kg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes.
Correct Answer
B. 0.1mg/kg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes.Explanation
Pediatric: 0.1mg/kg increments given via slow IV every 3-5 minutes. Titrate to pain. Administer at a rate not to exceed 1mg/min. Maintain systolic BP over age specific minimum systolic BP.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
What are the contraindications for Ketorolac Tromethamine (Toradol)?
- A.
Potential surgical candidate, allergy to NSAID's, nasal polyps, angioedemea, asthma, ulcers, and kidney disfunction.
- B.
Potential surgical candidate, allergy to NSAID's, nasal polyps, angioedemea, asthma, ulcers, and renal colic.
- C.
Potential surgical candidate, allergy to NSAID's, nasal polyps, angioedemea, asthma, ulcers, and acute back strain.
- D.
Potential surgical candidate, allergy to NSAID's, renal colic, acute back strain, asthma, ulcers, and kidney disfunction.
Correct Answer
A. Potential surgical candidate, allergy to NSAID's, nasal polyps, angioedemea, asthma, ulcers, and kidney disfunction.Explanation
Toradol is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with peripheral analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-pyretic actions. This action is due to inhabitation of prostaglandin synthesis.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
What is the correct dose for Ketorolac Tromethamine (Toradol) in the adult patient?
- A.
3mg IV or 6mg IM with BP >90mmHG. If over 65, limit dose to 1.5mg IV or 3mg IM.
- B.
3mg IV or 6mg IM with BP
- C.
30mg IV or 60mg IM with BP >90mmHG. If over 65, limit dose to 15mg IV or 30mg IM.
- D.
30mg IV or 60mg IM with BP
Correct Answer
C. 30mg IV or 60mg IM with BP >90mmHG. If over 65, limit dose to 15mg IV or 30mg IM.Explanation
The correct dose for Ketorolac Tromethamine (Toradol) in adult patients is 30mg IV or 60mg IM with a blood pressure (BP) greater than 90mmHG. However, if the patient is over 65 years old, the dose should be limited to 15mg IV or 30mg IM.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
What is the onset of action, peak action, and therapeutic effect times for Albuterol.
- A.
Onset: 15 minutes. Peak Action: 60-90 minutes. Therapeutic effects: 5 hours.
- B.
Onset: 5 minutes. Peak Action: 30-60 minutes. Therapeutic effects: 2 hours.
- C.
Onset: 45 minutes. Peak Action: 60-90 minutes. Therapeutic effects: 5 hours.
- D.
Onset: 30 minutes. Peak Action: 60-90 minutes. Therapeutic effects: 24 hours.
Correct Answer
A. Onset: 15 minutes. Peak Action: 60-90 minutes. Therapeutic effects: 5 hours.Explanation
The correct answer is Onset: 15 minutes, Peak Action: 60-90 minutes, and Therapeutic Effects: 5 hours. This means that after taking Albuterol, it takes about 15 minutes for the medication to start working. The peak action occurs between 60-90 minutes after administration, which is when the medication is at its highest concentration in the body. The therapeutic effects last for approximately 5 hours, providing relief from symptoms during this time.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
Albuterol is primarily a ___________ and, as such, produces bronchodilation.
- A.
Alpha 1 parasympatholytic.
- B.
Beta 2 sympathomimetic.
- C.
Beta 1 sympathomimetic.
- D.
Alpha 2 parasympatholytic.
Correct Answer
B. Beta 2 sympathomimetic.Explanation
Albuterol is primarily a Beta 2 sympathomimetic, which means it stimulates the beta 2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs. This stimulation leads to relaxation of the smooth muscles in the airways, resulting in bronchodilation. Albuterol is commonly used as a bronchodilator in the treatment of conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by opening up the airways and improving breathing.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
What is the correct dose for Albuterol in the adult patient?
- A.
2.5mg of Albuterol mixed with 2.5mg of NS flowed through a nebulizer at 6-8 L/min.
- B.
2.5mg of Albuterol mixed with 2.5mL of NS flowed through a nebulizer at 6-8 L/min.
- C.
2.5mg of Albuterol mixed with 1.5mg of NS flowed through a nebulizer at 6-8 L/min.
- D.
2.5mg of Albuterol mixed with 1.5mL of NS flowed through a nebulizer at 6-8 L/min.
Correct Answer
B. 2.5mg of Albuterol mixed with 2.5mL of NS flowed through a nebulizer at 6-8 L/min.Explanation
The correct dose for Albuterol in the adult patient is 2.5mg of Albuterol mixed with 2.5mL of NS flowed through a nebulizer at 6-8 L/min. This is the correct answer because it provides the appropriate dose of Albuterol (2.5mg) and the correct amount of normal saline (2.5mL) to be mixed together. Additionally, it specifies the flow rate of 6-8 L/min, which is the recommended rate for administering the medication through a nebulizer.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
Albuterol is contraindicated in the patient with a heart rate over _______.
- A.
90
- B.
180
- C.
140
- D.
80
Correct Answer
C. 140Explanation
Albuterol is a medication used to treat asthma and other respiratory conditions. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. However, it can also have effects on the heart, such as increasing heart rate. Therefore, it is contraindicated (not recommended) in patients with a heart rate over 140. This is because the medication could potentially worsen their heart condition and lead to complications.Rate this question:
-
- 11.
An Albuterol treatment is generally given over a period of ______ - _______ minutes.
- A.
5 - 15
- B.
30 - 45
- C.
45 - 60
- D.
1 - 5
Correct Answer
A. 5 - 15Explanation
An Albuterol treatment is generally given over a period of 5-15 minutes. This duration allows enough time for the medication to be effectively delivered to the lungs and provide relief for respiratory conditions such as asthma or bronchospasm. Longer durations may not be necessary as Albuterol acts quickly to open up the airways and improve breathing. Shorter durations may not provide enough time for the medication to take full effect. Therefore, the range of 5-15 minutes is considered optimal for Albuterol treatments.Rate this question:
-
- 12.
Ipratoprium Bromide (Atrovent) is indicated for which of the following?
- A.
Bradycardia
- B.
Tachycardia, unstable cardiovascular status, AMI, acute hemmorage, and pulmonary edema.
- C.
Organophosphate Poisonings
- D.
Relief of bronchospasms associated with asthma and COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema unresponsive to treatment with Albuterol alone.
Correct Answer
D. Relief of bronchospasms associated with asthma and COPD, including chronic bronchitis and empHysema unresponsive to treatment with Albuterol alone.Explanation
Ipratropium Bromide (Atrovent) is indicated for the relief of bronchospasms associated with asthma and COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema unresponsive to treatment with Albuterol alone. It is not indicated for bradycardia, tachycardia, unstable cardiovascular status, AMI, acute hemorrhage, pulmonary edema, or organophosphate poisonings.Rate this question:
-
- 13.
Put a check next to each EKG rhythm that would be elegible for Amiodarone treatments.
- A.
V-Fib
- B.
Torsades de pointes
- C.
V-Tach w/ a pulse
- D.
A-Fib
- E.
SVT
- F.
V-Tach w/out a pulse
- G.
A-Flutter
Correct Answer(s)
A. V-Fib
C. V-Tach w/ a pulse
E. SVT
F. V-Tach w/out a pulseExplanation
Amiodarone is a medication used to treat various cardiac arrhythmias. It is effective in treating ventricular fibrillation (V-Fib), ventricular tachycardia with a pulse (V-Tach w/ a pulse), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), and ventricular tachycardia without a pulse (V-Tach w/out a pulse). Therefore, the eligible rhythms for Amiodarone treatment are V-Fib, V-Tach w/ a pulse, SVT, and V-Tach w/out a pulse.Rate this question:
-
- 14.
What is the correct dose for Ipratropium Bromide (Atrovent) in the adult patient?
- A.
5mg/kg added to the standard dose of Albuterol.
- B.
5mg added to the standard dose of Albuterol.
- C.
0.5mg/kg added to the standard dose of Albuterol.
- D.
0.5mg added to the standard dose of Albuterol.
Correct Answer
D. 0.5mg added to the standard dose of Albuterol.Explanation
The correct dose for Ipratropium Bromide (Atrovent) in the adult patient is 0.5mg added to the standard dose of Albuterol.Rate this question:
-
- 15.
Haloperidol (Haldol) is indicated in which of the following scenarios?
- A.
Granny moving a little too slowly to the stretcher.
- B.
Suspected opiate overdose.
- C.
Violent or impaired patients.
- D.
For the reversal of a dystonic reaction induced by Diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
Correct Answer
C. Violent or impaired patients.Explanation
Haloperidol (Haldol) is indicated in scenarios where patients are violent or impaired. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication that is commonly used to treat symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. It can also be used to manage agitation and aggression in patients who are experiencing acute episodes of mania or psychosis. Therefore, in situations where patients are displaying violent or impaired behavior, Haloperidol may be administered to help calm and stabilize them.Rate this question:
-
- 16.
Haloperidol (Haldol) may result in ___________________ if it is administered alone.
- A.
A dystonic reaction
- B.
Diarrhea
- C.
A possible CVA
- D.
Bradycardia
Correct Answer
A. A dystonic reactionExplanation
Haloperidol (Haldol) is an antipsychotic medication that is commonly used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders. A dystonic reaction is a possible side effect of haloperidol when it is administered alone. Dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, which can cause abnormal postures or repetitive movements. This reaction is more likely to occur in younger individuals and can manifest as spasms of the neck, face, or tongue. Prompt recognition and treatment of dystonic reactions are essential to prevent further complications.Rate this question:
-
- 17.
What is the correct dose for Haloperidol (Haldol) in the adult patient?
- A.
5mg IM or IV.
- B.
5mg IM or IV. If over 65 limit the dosage to 2.5mg IM or IV.
- C.
2.5mg IM or IV.
- D.
5mg/kg IM or IV. If over 65 limit the dosage to 2.5mg/kg IM or IV.
Correct Answer
B. 5mg IM or IV. If over 65 limit the dosage to 2.5mg IM or IV.Explanation
The correct dose for Haloperidol (Haldol) in adult patients is 5mg IM or IV. However, if the patient is over 65 years old, the dosage should be limited to 2.5mg IM or IV. This is likely because older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of the medication and may require a lower dose to minimize the risk of side effects.Rate this question:
-
- 18.
______________ should be administered in conjunction with Haloperidol (Haldol).
- A.
Atropine
- B.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- C.
Dopamine (Intropin)
- D.
Calcium Chloride
Correct Answer
B. DipHenhydramine (Benadryl)Explanation
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) should be administered in conjunction with Haloperidol (Haldol) because it can help to prevent or reduce the side effects of Haloperidol, such as extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) and akathisia. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine with sedative properties that can counteract the neurological side effects of Haloperidol, making it a suitable choice to be used together with the medication.Rate this question:
-
- 19.
_______________ is produced in the pancreas by the alpha cells of the islets of Langerhans, and is a common drug used by Paramedics for the treatment of Hypoglycemia.
- A.
Dextrose 50%
- B.
Naloxone (Narcan)
- C.
Midazolam (Versed)
- D.
Glucagon
Correct Answer
D. GlucagonExplanation
Glucagon is produced in the pancreas by the alpha cells of the islets of Langerhans. It is a common drug used by Paramedics for the treatment of Hypoglycemia. Glucagon works by increasing blood sugar levels by causing the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose. This helps to raise the blood sugar levels quickly and effectively in cases of low blood sugar.Rate this question:
-
- 20.
What are the contraindications for Glucagon administration?
- A.
Hypersensitivity and hyperglycemia.
- B.
Tachycardia, hypertension, altered level of consciousness, and beta blocker overdoses
- C.
Potential surgical candidate, allergy to NSAID's, nasal polyps, angioedemea, asthma, ulcers, and kidney disfunction.
- D.
Agitation secondary to shock or hypoxia.
Correct Answer
A. Hypersensitivity and hyperglycemia.Explanation
The contraindications for Glucagon administration are hypersensitivity and hyperglycemia. This means that if a person is allergic to Glucagon or has high blood sugar levels, they should not be given Glucagon.Rate this question:
-
- 21.
Glucagon increases blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogenesis.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Glucagon is a hormone that is released by the pancreas in response to low blood glucose levels. It acts to increase blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogenesis, which is the process of converting excess glucose into glycogen for storage in the liver. This stored glycogen can then be broken down into glucose and released into the bloodstream when needed. Therefore, the statement that glucagon increases blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogenesis is true.Rate this question:
-
- 22.
What is the correct dose for Glucagon in the adult patient?
- A.
5mg-10mg IM or IV. IV is the most prefered route.
- B.
5mg-10mg IM or IV. IM is the most prefered route.
- C.
0.5mg-1mg IM or IV. IV is the most prefered route.
- D.
0.5mg-1mg IM or IV. IM is the most prefered route.
Correct Answer
D. 0.5mg-1mg IM or IV. IM is the most prefered route.Explanation
The correct dose for Glucagon in adult patients is 0.5mg-1mg, and it can be administered either intramuscularly (IM) or intravenously (IV). The most preferred route of administration is IM.Rate this question:
-
- 23.
The pediatric dosage for Glucagon is 0.025mg/kg IM.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The given statement is true. The pediatric dosage for Glucagon is indeed 0.025mg/kg IM. This means that the dosage of Glucagon for children is determined based on their weight, with a recommended dosage of 0.025mg for every kilogram of body weight. The medication is administered intramuscularly (IM).Rate this question:
-
- 24.
Activated Charcoal (Actidose) is indicated for ingested poisons such as cyanide, methanol, organophosphates, and/or other caustic substances.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Activated Charcoal (Actidose) is ONLY indicated for the ingestion of poisons and medication overdoses. The above listed materials are substances that are contraindications for Activated Charcoal (Actidose).Rate this question:
-
- 25.
The correct dose for Vasopressin is 100U IV and is substituted for the first or second dose of Epinephrine in cardiac arrest.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Vasopressin is 40U IV and is substituted for the first OR second dose of Epinephrine in cardiac arrest.Rate this question:
-
- 26.
Vecuronium Bromide (Norcuron) is a short-acting, ______________ skeletal muscle relaxant.
- A.
Smooth
- B.
Striated
- C.
Depolarizing
- D.
Nondepolarizing
Correct Answer
D. NondepolarizingExplanation
Vecuronium Bromide (Norcuron) is a short-acting, nondepolarizing skeletal muscle relaxant. Nondepolarizing muscle relaxants work by blocking the action of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle contractions. This allows for relaxation of skeletal muscles during surgical procedures or mechanical ventilation. In contrast, depolarizing muscle relaxants, such as succinylcholine, initially cause muscle depolarization before leading to relaxation. Therefore, the correct answer is nondepolarizing.Rate this question:
-
- 27.
What is the correct dose for Vecuronium Bromide (Norcuron) in the adult AND pediatric patient?
- A.
Adult: 0.1mg/kg IV given over 30-60 seconds. Pediatric: 0.01mg/kg IV given over 30-60 seconds.
- B.
Adult: 1mg/kg IV given over 30-60 seconds. Pediatric: 0.1mg/kg IV given over 30-60 seconds.
- C.
Adult: 0.1mg/kg IV given over 30-60 seconds. Pediatric: Is the same dose.
- D.
Adult: 1mg/kg IV given over 30-60 seconds. Pediatric: Is the same dose.
Correct Answer
C. Adult: 0.1mg/kg IV given over 30-60 seconds. Pediatric: Is the same dose.Explanation
The correct dose for Vecuronium Bromide (Norcuron) in the adult patient is 0.1mg/kg IV given over 30-60 seconds. For pediatric patients, the same dose of 0.1mg/kg IV given over 30-60 seconds is recommended.Rate this question:
-
- 28.
Contraindications of Vecuronium Bromide (Norcuron) include acute narrow glaucoma, penetrating eye injuries, inability to control airway or support ventilations with oxygen and positive pressure, newborns, and hepatic or renal failure.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because contraindications are conditions or factors that make a particular treatment or procedure inadvisable. In this case, Vecuronium Bromide (Norcuron) should not be used in patients with acute narrow glaucoma, penetrating eye injuries, inability to control airway or support ventilations with oxygen and positive pressure, newborns, and hepatic or renal failure. These conditions may increase the risk of complications or have adverse effects on the patient's health.Rate this question:
-
- 29.
What class of drug is Verapamil (Isoptin)?
- A.
Paralytic agent.
- B.
Antiarrhythmic.
- C.
Antihistamine.
- D.
Sympathomimetic
Correct Answer
B. Antiarrhythmic.Explanation
Verapamil (Isoptin) is classified as an antiarrhythmic drug. Antiarrhythmics are medications used to treat abnormal heart rhythms by regulating the electrical activity of the heart. Verapamil specifically belongs to the calcium channel blocker class of antiarrhythmics, which work by blocking calcium channels in the heart muscle cells, thereby slowing down the heart rate and reducing the force of contractions. This helps to stabilize the heart rhythm and prevent certain types of arrhythmias.Rate this question:
-
- 30.
What are the indications for Verapamil (Isoptin)?
- A.
Nausea and Vomiting
- B.
Calcium channel blocker overdoses
- C.
Cardiac arrest
- D.
Supra Ventricular Tachycardias and Premature Atrial Tachycardias
Correct Answer
D. Supra Ventricular Tachycardias and Premature Atrial TachycardiasExplanation
Verapamil (Isoptin) is indicated for the treatment of Supra Ventricular Tachycardias (SVT) and Premature Atrial Tachycardias (PAT). SVT is a condition characterized by a rapid heart rate originating from the upper chambers of the heart, while PAT is a type of arrhythmia that causes rapid and irregular heartbeats. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, thereby reducing the heart rate and improving blood flow. Therefore, it is an appropriate medication for managing SVT and PAT.Rate this question:
-
- 31.
What is the correct dose for Verapamil (Norcuron) in the adult AND pediatric patient?
- A.
Adult: 2.5mg-5mg IV over 2 minutes. Repeat doses of 5mg-10mg may be given every 15-30 minutes to a max dose of 20mg. Pediatric: 0.1mg-0.2mg/kg/dose IV over 2 minutes. Repeat same dose in 30 minutes if not effective.
- B.
Adult: 0.25mg-0.5mg IV over 2 minutes. Repeat doses of 0.5mg-1mg may be given every 15-30 minutes to a max dose of 20mg. Pediatric: 0.1mg-0.2mg/kg/dose IV over 2 minutes. Repeat same dose in 30 minutes if not effective.
- C.
Adult: 12.5mg-25mg IV over 2 minutes. Repeat doses of 15mg-30mg may be given every 15-30 minutes to a max dose of 50mg. Pediatric: 1mg-2mg/kg/dose IV over 2 minutes. Repeat same dose in 30 minutes if not effective.
- D.
Adult: 1mg-2mg IV over 2 minutes. Repeat doses of 2mg-4mg may be given every 15-30 minutes to a max dose of 10mg. Pediatric: 0.1mg-0.2mg/kg/dose IV over 2 minutes. Repeat same dose in 30 minutes if not effective.
Correct Answer
A. Adult: 2.5mg-5mg IV over 2 minutes. Repeat doses of 5mg-10mg may be given every 15-30 minutes to a max dose of 20mg. Pediatric: 0.1mg-0.2mg/kg/dose IV over 2 minutes. Repeat same dose in 30 minutes if not effective.Explanation
The correct answer is the first option: Adult: 2.5mg-5mg IV over 2 minutes. Repeat doses of 5mg-10mg may be given every 15-30 minutes to a max dose of 20mg. Pediatric: 0.1mg-0.2mg/kg/dose IV over 2 minutes. Repeat same dose in 30 minutes if not effective. This answer provides the appropriate dose range for both adult and pediatric patients. For adults, the initial dose is 2.5mg-5mg, with the option to repeat doses up to a maximum of 20mg. For pediatric patients, the initial dose is based on weight, ranging from 0.1mg-0.2mg/kg, with the option to repeat the same dose if needed.Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 19, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Feb 16, 2011Quiz Created by
Joemescaleros
Back to top