PTCB Updated PTCE Exam Questions and Answers by aayat

Folic acid (Vitamin B9) is crucial for fetal development, reducing the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida.

Recommended dose: At least 400 mcg daily before pregnancy and during the first trimester.

????Reference:CDC Folic Acid Pregnancy Guidelines, PTCE Vitamin & Supplement Guide.

Cefdinir is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections, including otitis media (middle ear infection) in children. It is available in both capsule and suspension forms. However, cefdinir suspension is supplied in different concentrations, typically125 mg/5 mLand250 mg/5 mL.

The prescription provided specifies"Cefdinir suspension 5 mL PO q12h x 10 days", but it does not mention the concentration (strength) of the suspension. Without this crucial information, the pharmacy cannot accurately determine the total dosage the patient will receive. Different strengths would result in significantly different amounts of cefdinir per dose.

For example:

If the prescriber intended125 mg/5 mL, then the patient would receive125 mg per dose (250 mg daily).

If the prescriber intended250 mg/5 mL, then the patient would receive250 mg per dose (500 mg daily).

This discrepancy could lead tounderdosing or overdosing, making it essential for the pharmacy to contact the prescriber to confirm the correct concentration before dispensing.

A. Cefdinir is not available as a suspension.→ Incorrect. Cefdinir is available inoral suspensionform, typically in 125 mg/5 mL and 250 mg/5 mL concentrations.

C. Cefdinir suspension is not indicated for otitis media.→ Incorrect. Cefdinir is FDA-approved for the treatment of otitis media in pediatric patients.

D. Cefdinir suspension was prescribed for a child old enough to swallow capsules.→ Incorrect. While some 8-year-old children may be able to swallow capsules, many pediatric patients prefer liquid formulations, and prescribers often choose suspensions for better compliance.

PTCB PTCE Exam Content Outline – Medication Order Entry and Fill Process(Ensuring accuracy of prescriptions, including strength and formulation).

FDA Drug Label for Cefdinir– Indicates available strengths and dosing requirements.

Lexicomp Drug Information for Cefdinir– Lists the recommended pediatric dosages and available suspension concentrations.

Pharmacology Textbooks (e.g., "Mosby’s Pharmacy Technician: Principles and Practice")– Reinforce the importance of verifying missing prescription details before dispensing.

Why the Other Answer Choices Are Incorrect:Pharmacy Technician References:

Expired medications should first be reported to the wholesaler or manufacturer for return or replacement.

Reverse distributorshandlecontrolled substance disposalbut are not the first point of contact for expired non-controlled medications.

????Reference:DEA Medication Disposal Regulations, PTCE Inventory Management Guide.

Isotretinoin (Accutane) is regulated under the iPLEDGE program.

Only a 30-day supply is allowed, and pregnancy tests are required each month for females.

????Reference:FDA iPLEDGE Program, PTCB High-Risk Medication Guidelines.