PNLE-Style Pharmacology Exam: 100 Challenging MCQs
This document contains 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) designed in the style of the
Philippine Nurse Licensure Examination (PNLE). The focus is on four pharmacological
categories: Alcohol Antagonists, Alpha-1 Blockers, Antacids, and Analgesics. Each question
includes the correct answer and an expanded rationale to reinforce clinical reasoning and
board-style thinking.
1. Q1. A client is prescribed Ibuprofen (Motrin) for osteoarthritis. Which of the following
instructions should the nurse include?
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A. Take the medication on an empty stomach to increase absorption
B. Avoid taking the medication with food
C. Take the medication with meals to reduce gastrointestinal upset
D. Limit fluid intake while taking the drug
✅Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ibuprofen is an NSAID that can irritate the gastric mucosa. Taking it with meals
helps protect the stomach lining and reduces the risk of ulcers or GI bleeding.
2. Q2. A nurse is teaching a client about adverse effects of Ibuprofen. Which of the
following should be reported immediately?
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A. Mild headache
B. Ringing in the ears
C. Constipation
D. Dry mouth
✅Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, may be a sign of NSAID toxicity. This early
symptom should be addressed promptly to prevent permanent damage or systemic toxicity.
3. Q3. A client is taking naltrexone for alcohol dependence. Which statement indicates the
client understands the drug’s action?
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A. It makes alcohol taste bad.
B. It causes vomiting if I drink alcohol.
C. It blocks the pleasure from drinking.
D. It replaces the need for alcohol.
✅Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking the euphoric effects of
alcohol, reducing the desire to drink.
4. Q4. Which client is most at risk for GI bleeding when taking NSAIDs?
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A. 24-year-old with dysmenorrhea
B. 45-year-old with hypertension
C. 68-year-old with a history of ulcers
D. 30-year-old with seasonal allergies
✅Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Elderly patients and those with a history of peptic ulcer disease are at higher risk
of GI bleeding when taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen.
5. Q5. What is the best advice for a patient taking prazosin for hypertension?
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A. Take the first dose in the morning with food.
B. Avoid dairy products.
C. Take the first dose at bedtime to reduce fainting.
D. Stop the medication once blood pressure is normal.
✅Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Prazosin may cause a 'first-dose effect,' leading to severe hypotension. Taking the
first dose at bedtime minimizes the risk of falls.