Coppin State University
College of Health Professions
Nurs 310 Pharmacology
Exam 3 Study Guide Fall 2025
Cardio/Respiratory/ Hematology Medications
1. Discuss the pharmacology related to cardiac glycosides, alpha and beta-blockers, beta 1 and 2
antagonists, calcium channel blockers, statins, nitrates, ACE inhibitors, CAIs, ARBs, lidocaine,
anti-tussive, expectorants, mucolytics, decongestants, corticosteroids, antihistamines,
bronchodilators, vasodilators, Xanthines, ASA, thrombolytics, anticoagulants, and antiplatelets.
Include indications for use, therapeutic actions, side effects, contraindications, and nursing
considerations/ patient education information.
2. Discuss using broncho-inhalers, steroid-based inhalers, and nebulizing treatments. Include
indications, directions, and precautions for use. What precautions are needed for Xanthines
(theophylline)? What is the therapeutic theophylline level?
3. Differentiate mucolytic, decongestants, bronchodilators, and expectorants. What are the
precautions and nursing care in administration for each?
4. Discuss the process of giving a steroid-based inhaler.
5. Discuss medications used to treat status asthmaticus.
6. What medications are used to treat TB? Discuss actions, side effects, and length of therapy. What
supplemental vitamin therapy should be given with TB drugs, and why?
7. Discuss the use of a spacer. What is the purpose of the device?
8. Discuss medications for common upper respiratory tract inflammations, seasonal allergies, nasal
stuffiness, chronic coughing, and chest congestion. What are the major side effects of chronic use
of nasal sprays for nasal congestion?
9. Describe the use of antivirals for the flu. When is the best time to implement the therapy?
10. What is the action of digoxin? What disorders is digoxin used for? What is the normal
therapeutic level of digoxin? Discuss digoxin's inotropic effect. What are the s/s of digoxin
toxicity? What is the antidote for digoxin overdose?
11. Discuss common medications used to treat hypertension. Discuss the side effects and adverse
effects of these drugs.
12. Discuss the rationale for patients taking more than one antihypertensive medication. What is the
recommended protocol for the initial treatment of hypertension?
13. What are the guidelines for taking sublingual nitroglycerine?
14. What is the benefit of taking direct thrombin inhibitors over warfarin and heparin?
15. What are the side effects and adverse effects of medications that reduce cholesterol levels?
