A nurse is teaching a class about pharmacodynamics.
The nurse should include that which of the following medication levels occurs when a medication is at the lowest serum concentration?
Toxic.
Peak.
Trough.
Half-life.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Toxic levels refer to concentrations of a medication that are high enough to cause harmful effects or poisoning. This is not related to the lowest serum concentration.
Choice B rationale
Peak levels are the highest concentration of a medication in the bloodstream after administration. This occurs after the drug is absorbed and distributed.
Choice C rationale
Trough levels occur when the medication is at its lowest concentration in the bloodstream, typically just before the next dose is due. Monitoring trough levels helps ensure therapeutic effectiveness while avoiding toxicity.
Choice D rationale
Half-life refers to the time it takes for the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream to decrease by half. It is not directly related to the lowest serum concentration at a specific point in time.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D rationale
Intravenous (IV) administration has the fastest rate of absorption because the medication is delivered directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the absorption barriers of the digestive
system or muscle tissue. This ensures rapid onset of action.
Choice A rationale
Enteral administration involves the gastrointestinal tract, including oral and feeding tube methods. Absorption is slower as the medication passes through the digestive system before
entering the bloodstream.
Choice B rationale
Intramuscular (IM) administration involves injecting the medication into muscle tissue, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Absorption is quicker than enteral routes but slower
compared to IV administration.
Choice C rationale
Topical administration involves applying medication to the skin or mucous membranes. Absorption is generally slower and is intended for local or systemic effects, depending on the medication.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Reflex incontinence is caused by neurological impairment or damage, such as spinal cord injury, which results in a loss of voluntary control over urination. The bladder muscle contracts involuntarily, causing urine leakage.
Choice B rationale
Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder cannot empty properly, leading to frequent or constant dribbling of urine. It is not typically associated with nerve damage from spinal cord injury.
Choice C rationale
Stress incontinence is caused by physical movement or activity—such as coughing, sneezing, or heavy lifting—that puts pressure on the bladder, leading to urine leakage. It is not related to nerve damage or neurological conditions.
Choice D rationale
Urge incontinence is characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate, followed by involuntary urine leakage. It is usually caused by an overactive bladder or other conditions affecting bladder function, but not directly by nerve damage from spinal cord injury.