Abstract
The CRNI Certification Examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering the nine core content areas of infusion nursing: Technology and Clinical Applications, Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Pharmacology, Infection Control, Pediatrics, Transfusion Therapy, Antineoplastic Therapy, Parenteral Nutrition, and Quality Assurance. The review questions provided below are modeled on the CRNI exam and are intended to help exam candidates test their knowledge of infusion therapy practice. This special section is a regular addition to the Journal of Infusion Nursing, with each edition focusing on a single content area.
Infusion certification requires different areas of expertise for both the Registered Nurse and the Licensed Practical Nurse. Pharmacology, "the study of medications and the effects on living organisms" as defined in Tabers, is one of these specialty areas.
Pharmacology competency consists of knowledge of the type of drug (eg, anti-infective agents, antifungals, antivirals, analgesics, cardiovascular agents, antihypertensive agents), indications for use, proper dosage and administration of proper dilution, precautions, side effects, and compatibilities and incompatibilities.
Infusion nurses administer medications daily. Incorrect administration of a medication could be hazardous or even deadly to a patient. Medical history review, identification of drug allergies, previous adverse effects from medications, review of current medications, laboratory interpretation, and clinical assessments are a few of the responsibilities required of the infusion specialist. Collaboration of care with the registered pharmacist and physician is essential. Complications should be reported immediately to members of the healthcare team. In addition, observation of the 5 "rights": right name, right drug, right route, right time, and right frequency should be used prior to the administration of medications.