Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Practice Exam Practice Question

According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), IV propranolol is considered a high-alert medication in acute care settings because it is a(n):

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: IV propranolol is classified as an adrenergic antagonist, specifically a non-selective beta-blocker, which can significantly affect heart rate and blood pressure. Its potent effects necessitate careful monitoring, placing it in the high-alert category due to the risk of serious adverse events if mismanaged.

Option B, chemotherapeutic agent, is incorrect; propranolol is not used for cancer treatment. Option C, opioid, is also wrong as propranolol does not act on opioid receptors and is not used for pain management. Lastly, option D, anticoagulant, is misleading; propranolol does not prevent blood clotting, but rather manages cardiovascular conditions.

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