AMB-BC Ambulatory Nurse Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q1A newly hired janitorial staff member reports to the charge nurse feeling nauseated, dizzy, and having difficulty breathing. The staff member mentions that they have been using a new cleaning agent. What do you suspect is causing these symptoms and how should they be treated?
✓ Correct answer: D. Inhalation of toxic cleaning chemicals; call for emergency services, move the staff member to fresh air, provide respiratory support, and monitor vital signs.
Correct Answer: Inhalation of toxic cleaning chemicals; call for emergency services, move the staff member to fresh air, provide respiratory support, and monitor vital signs. Many cleaning agents can cause respiratory distress if inhaled. Immediate steps include moving the affected person to fresh air, providing oxygen if available, and monitoring their vital signs while waiting for emergency services. It's critical for janitorial staff to be trained in the proper use of cleaning agents and the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid such incidents.
Q2Which ethical principle involves respecting a patient's right to make their own decisions?
✓ Correct answer: C. Autonomy
Autonomy refers to the right of patients to make independent decisions about their healthcare. It emphasizes the importance of providing patients with all necessary information to make informed decisions about their treatment.
Q3The HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) was enacted to protect patient privacy and secure sensitive health information. Which organization is responsible for enforcing HIPAA compliance?
✓ Correct answer: B. The Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is responsible for enforcing HIPAA compliance.
Q4These are all correct ways of handling reusable surgical scissors except which one?
✓ Correct answer: A. Leaving the blades closed during cleaning and sterilization to protect the cutting edges
Leaving the blades closed during cleaning and sterilization can prevent proper sterilization of the scissors' inner surfaces. The sterilant cannot effectively reach all areas, which may result in an incomplete sterilization process. The proper method is to leave the blades open to ensure thorough cleaning and sterilization. The other listed actions are correct methods for handling reusable surgical scissors.
Q5Why is it critical to calibrate an infusion pump before starting a continuous medication infusion?
✓ Correct answer: C. To ensure accurate delivery of the prescribed medication dose and prevent over- or under-infusion
Calibrating an infusion pump is essential to ensure that the medication is delivered at the correct rate and dosage, preventing potential medication errors such as over- or under-infusion, which could have serious clinical consequences.
Q6As per the recommendations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which type of sterilization method is recommended for reusable medical instruments that have been exposed to prion contamination?
✓ Correct answer: A. Steam sterilization
Answer: Steam sterilization The FDA recommends steam sterilization for reusable medical instruments that have been exposed to prion contamination. This method is effective in denaturing prion proteins, which can withstand many other forms of sterilization.
Q7A pharmacy technician accidentally spills a small amount of hazardous medication onto their skin while preparing an IV admixture. What should they do first?
✓ Correct answer: D. Wash the affected area with soap and water
Answer: Wash the affected area with soap and water The first thing to do after exposure to a hazardous medication is to wash the area with soap and water to remove any contaminants. Following this, the technician should report the incident to a supervisor and follow facility protocols for further medical evaluation and necessary follow-up actions.
Q8In a dental clinic, sterilization rooms often contain autoclaves for sterilizing instruments. To ensure patient safety, the autoclave should not exceed a maximum operating temperature. What is the ideal maximum temperature setting for these autoclaves to ensure effective sterilization without compromising the integrity of the instruments?
✓ Correct answer: C. 270°F (132°C)
Answer: 270°F (132°C) Most autoclaves used for sterilizing dental instruments should be set at a temperature of 270°F (132°C) to ensure effective sterilization while maintaining the integrity of the instruments. Temperatures higher than this may cause damage to the instruments, while lower temperatures may not be sufficient for sterilization. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and facility policies for the proper usage and monitoring of autoclaves.
Q9Which of these is a known barrier to effective communication between healthcare providers and patients?
✓ Correct answer: B. Using complex medical terminology without explanations
Answer: Using complex medical terminology without explanations. Healthcare information should be accessible and understandable to patients, typically at a 5th grade reading level. Professional interpreters are essential for patients with limited English proficiency, and open-ended questions help to obtain more comprehensive patient information. Avoiding jargon ensures better patient understanding and communication.
Q10What is the process called when patient information is accurately communicated during a shift change to ensure ongoing patient safety and care?
✓ Correct answer: D. Handoff communication
Answer: Handoff communication Handoff communication is crucial to maintaining patient safety and continuity of care. Accurate and thorough communication during shift changes helps avoid miscommunication and potential adverse events.
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