CVA - Certified Veterinary Assistant Veterinary Pharmacology Basics Questions and Answers

Question 1

A veterinarian writes a prescription for an anti-anxiety medication to be given "PRN for thunderstorms." How should the CVA explain these instructions to the pet owner?

Accepted Answer

Give the medication as needed specifically when there are thunderstorms.

Answer

Give the medication once a day, every day, during thunderstorm season.

Answer

Give the medication every 12 hours on days when storms are forecast.

Answer

Give the medication by mouth thirty minutes before every meal.

Question 2

Which of the following routes of drug administration typically has the fastest onset of action, making it ideal for emergencies?

Accepted Answer

Intravenous (IV)

Answer

Subcutaneous (SQ)

Answer

Oral (PO)

Answer

Topical

Question 3

A veterinarian prescribes meloxicam for a dog with arthritis. This medication belongs to which class of drugs?

Accepted Answer

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

Answer

Antibiotic

Answer

Antiparasitic

Answer

Antifungal

Question 4

When dispensing a controlled substance, such as a potent opioid analgesic, what is a critical legal requirement that must be meticulously documented?

Accepted Answer

A detailed, running log of the date, client, patient, and exact quantity dispensed.

Answer

The time of day the prescription was filled.

Answer

The pet's color and breed.

Answer

The name of the CVA who counted the pills.

Question 5

A client calls the clinic stating their dog, who just started a new medication, is now lethargic and has a decreased appetite. What is the most appropriate action for the CVA to take?

Accepted Answer

Advise the owner to stop the medication and document the conversation for the veterinarian to review.

Answer

Tell the owner to give the dog half of the prescribed dose next time.

Answer

Reassure the client that these are normal side effects and to continue the medication.

Answer

Suggest giving the dog an over-the-counter antacid to help with its stomach.

Question 6

Why is it crucial for veterinary staff to wear gloves when handling certain topical medications, such as some chemotherapy drugs or hormonal creams?

Accepted Answer

To avoid accidental absorption of the drug through their skin, which could be harmful.

Answer

To prevent the medication from staining their hands.

Answer

To keep the medication from getting too warm from body heat.

Answer

To ensure the medication remains sterile before application.