ISMP High-Alert Medications

Question 1

Which organization publishes the list of high-alert medications used most widely in US healthcare settings?

Accepted Answer

ISMP

Answer

FDA

Answer

The Joint Commission

Answer

CMS

Question 2

Which of the following is considered a high-alert medication by ISMP?

Accepted Answer

Insulin

Answer

Acetaminophen

Answer

Amoxicillin

Answer

Ibuprofen

Question 3

What is a recommended strategy for reducing errors with high-alert medications?

Accepted Answer

Require independent double-checks

Answer

Store them at the front of the medication room

Answer

Dispense in bulk quantities

Answer

Allow verbal orders only

Question 4

Concentrated electrolytes such as potassium chloride injection are on the ISMP high-alert list primarily because they can cause:

Accepted Answer

Cardiac arrest if given undiluted IV push

Answer

Mild hypertension

Answer

Skin irritation

Answer

Nausea only

Question 5

According to ISMP, which labeling practice helps distinguish high-alert medications from routine drugs?

Accepted Answer

Auxiliary warning labels or stickers

Answer

Blue labels

Answer

No labels needed

Answer

Smaller font

Question 6

Neuromuscular blocking agents are classified as high-alert because they can cause:

Accepted Answer

Respiratory arrest when given to non-intubated patients

Answer

Excessive sedation only

Answer

Anaphylaxis exclusively

Answer

Hypertensive crisis