Numeracy
1. A patient needs 600 mg of a drug that comes in 200 mg tablets. How many tablets
should be given?
Step 1: Divide required dose by tablet strength.
600 mg ÷ 200 mg/tablet = 3 tablets
Answer: 3 tablets.
2. Convert 1.2 L to mL.
Step 1: 1 L = 1000 mL
1.2 L × 1000 = 1200 mL
Answer: 1200 mL.
3. A solution contains 15 mg/mL of a drug. How many mg are in 10 mL?
Step 1: Multiply concentration by volume.
15 mg/mL × 10 mL = 150 mg
Answer: 150 mg.
4. If a prescription calls for 400 mg every 8 hours for 5 days, how many grams are
required in total?
Step 1: Calculate doses per day: 24 hours ÷ 8 = 3 doses/day
Step 2: Total mg per day: 400 mg × 3 = 1200 mg
Step 3: Total mg for 5 days: 1200 mg × 5 = 6000 mg
Step 4: Convert mg to grams: 6000 mg ÷ 1000 = 6 g
Answer: 6 grams.
5. A 50 kg patient requires a 1.5 mg/kg dose. What is the required dose in mg?
Step 1: Multiply dose per kg by patient weight.
1.5 mg/kg × 50 kg = 75 mg
Answer: 75 mg.
Writing Skills
6. Rewrite the following sentence to make it more professional: "He didn’t took the
meds."
Step 1: Correct verb tense and use full form.
Correct: "He did not take the medication."
Answer: "He did not take the medication."
7. Identify and correct the grammar in this sentence: "They goes to pharmacy daily."
Step 1: Correct subject-verb agreement.
Correct: "They go to the pharmacy daily."
Answer: "They go to the pharmacy daily."
8. Write a formal email to a prescriber requesting more details on a prescription.
Step 1: Address politely.
Step 2: State reason for inquiry clearly.
Step 3: Request specific information needed.
Step 4: Thank the prescriber.
Answer:
"Dear Dr. [Name],
I am writing to request clarification regarding the prescription for [patient name].
Could you please provide additional details on [specific information]? Thank you for
your assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]"
9. Summarise a patient interaction involving medication counselling.
Step 1: Identify patient’s concerns.
Step 2: Describe advice given.
Step 3: Note patient understanding or follow-up.
Answer:
"Patient was concerned about side effects. Counselling provided on proper use and
managing side effects. Patient demonstrated understanding and agreed to follow
advice."
10. Draft a clinical note about a patient's missed dose of insulin.
Step 1: State event clearly.
Step 2: Note reason (if known).
Step 3: Mention advice given or follow-up plan.
Answer:
"Patient missed insulin dose this morning due to forgetfulness. Advised to monitor
blood glucose closely and contact GP if levels remain high."
Professional Behaviours
11. What should you do if you notice a team member making consistent documentation
errors?
Step 1: Discuss concerns privately with team member.
Step 2: Offer assistance or training.
Step 3: Report to supervisor if errors continue.
Answer: Address concerns professionally, support team member, and escalate if
needed.
12. Why are professional boundaries important with patients?
Step 1: Maintain trust and respect.
Step 2: Prevent conflicts of interest.
Step 3: Ensure safe, ethical care.
Answer: Boundaries protect patient-professional relationships and ensure care
quality.
13. Describe the role of honesty in pharmacy practice.
Step 1: Builds trust with patients and colleagues.
Step 2: Supports accurate reporting and safety.
Step 3: Upholds professional integrity.
Answer: Honesty fosters trust, safety, and professionalism.
14. How would you handle witnessing unprofessional behaviour by a colleague?
Step 1: Assess situation carefully.
Step 2: Address directly if appropriate.
Step 3: Report to supervisor or relevant authority if needed.
Answer: Respond thoughtfully, seek resolution, and escalate when necessary.
15. Why is self-awareness important in healthcare teams?
Step 1: Helps recognise own biases and limitations.
Step 2: Improves communication and teamwork.
Step 3: Enhances patient care quality.
Answer: Self-awareness promotes effective teamwork and better care.
Ethics/Bioethics
16. Should a pharmacist dispense medication to a patient who appears intoxicated?
Justify your response.
Step 1: Assess patient’s capacity to understand and safely use medication.
Step 2: If impaired, delay dispensing to ensure safety.
Step 3: Provide counseling or refer for assistance.
Answer: Dispense only if safe and patient is competent; prioritize safety.
17. Define patient autonomy and give a relevant example.
Step 1: Autonomy means patient’s right to make informed decisions.
Step 2: Example: Patient refusing a prescribed medicine after understanding risks.
Answer: Autonomy is respecting patient choices; e.g., declining treatment.
18. What should a pharmacist do if asked to dispense medication they are morally
opposed to?
Step 1: Express concerns respectfully.
Step 2: Refer patient to another pharmacist or provider.
Step 3: Ensure patient’s timely access to treatment.
Answer: Object respectfully and refer to maintain patient care.
19. Describe how justice applies in distributing limited COVID-19 treatments.
Step 1: Ensure fair access to all eligible patients.
Step 2: Prioritize based on need and risk factors.
Step 3: Avoid discrimination.
Answer: Justice means equitable and fair distribution.
20. What ethical issues arise from using AI to prioritise patients for surgery?
Step 1: Risk of bias in algorithms.
Step 2: Transparency in decision-making.
Step 3: Patient consent and privacy concerns.
Answer: Ethical use requires fairness, transparency, and consent.
Compounding Medicines
21. Describe how to prepare a compounded topical cream.
Step 1: Accurately weigh ingredients.
Step 2: Mix active ingredient with base evenly.
Step 3: Package with appropriate labelling.
Answer: Weigh, mix uniformly, and label properly.
22. What factors must be considered when choosing a base for a compounded cream?
Step 1: Patient’s skin type and allergies.
Step 2: Desired absorption and texture.
Step 3: Stability of active ingredient.
Answer: Base must be safe, effective, and compatible.
23. How do you ensure uniform distribution of an active ingredient in a compounded
powder?
Step 1: Use geometric dilution method.
Step 2: Mix thoroughly in small portions incrementally.
Answer: Mix gradually and evenly to ensure uniformity.
24. List steps for cleaning compounding equipment after use.
Step 1: Remove residues immediately.
Step 2: Wash with appropriate detergents.
Step 3: Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Step 4: Sterilise if required.
Answer: Clean, rinse, dry, and sterilise as needed.
25. What documentation is required for compounded medicines?
Step 1: Record formula and ingredients.
Step 2: Batch or preparation number.
Step 3: Expiry date and storage instructions.
Answer: Complete, accurate records for traceability.
Privacy and Confidentiality
26. What should you do if you overhear a colleague discussing patient details in public?
Step 1: Politely remind them about confidentiality.
Step 2: Report repeated breaches to management.
Answer: Address the breach and escalate if necessary.
27. List two ways to secure electronic patient records.
Step 1: Use password protection and encryption.
Step 2: Regular software updates and access controls.
Answer: Passwords/encryption and strict access controls.
28. Why is privacy important during patient counselling?
Step 1: Protect patient dignity and confidentiality.
Step 2: Encourage open communication.
Answer: Privacy builds trust and improves care quality.
29. What is the difference between confidentiality and privacy in healthcare?
Step 1: Privacy is the right to control personal info.
Step 2: Confidentiality is the duty to protect that info.
Answer: Privacy is patient’s right; confidentiality is provider’s duty.
30. Describe how to respond to a subpoena for patient records.
Step 1: Verify legal validity of subpoena.
Step 2: Consult legal or compliance team.
Step 3: Release only authorized information.
Answer: Verify, consult, and comply legally.
Medicines Supply
31. How do you manage expired medication stock?
Step 1: Identify and separate expired stock.
Step 2: Follow disposal protocols.
Step 3: Document disposal accordingly.
Answer: Remove, dispose properly, and document.
32. What is the process for supplying a drug under the Special Access Scheme?
Step 1: Prescriber applies for approval.
Step 2: Approval granted by regulatory body.
Step 3: Supply drug per approved conditions.
Answer: Obtain approval then supply as authorised.
33. Describe how PBS pricing works in practice.
Step 1: Government subsidises cost for eligible patients.
Step 2: Patients pay co-payment amount.
Step 3: Pharmacists claim balance from PBS.
Answer: Patients pay co-payment; government pays rest.
34. Explain how to use a perpetual inventory for narcotics.
Step 1: Record all receipts and dispensings immediately.
Step 2: Update stock balances continuously.
Step 3: Reconcile regularly with physical stock.
Answer: Continuous accurate record-keeping and reconciliation.
35. How can pharmacists ensure supply continuity during shortages?
Step 1: Monitor stock levels regularly.
Step 2: Source alternative suppliers or therapeutically equivalent drugs.
Step 3: Communicate with prescribers and patients.
Answer: Monitor, find alternatives, and inform stakeholders.
PBS / TGA
36. How does the PBS reduce costs for patients?
Step 1: Subsidises medicine prices.
Step 2: Limits out-of-pocket expenses via Safety Net.
Answer: Subsidies and Safety Net reduce patient costs.
37. Explain the role of the PBAC in approving PBS medicines.
Step 1: Evaluate clinical and cost-effectiveness.
Step 2: Recommend medicines for PBS listing.
Answer: PBAC assesses value and advises PBS listings.
38. What is required for a medicine to be approved by the TGA?
Step 1: Evidence of safety, quality, and efficacy.
Step 2: Submission of clinical data and manufacturing info.
Answer: Scientific proof of safety, quality, and efficacy.
39. What is the difference between brand substitution and generic substitution?
Step 1: Brand substitution replaces medicine with different brand.
Step 2: Generic substitution replaces medicine with equivalent generic.
Answer: Brand substitution changes brand; generic uses same medicine from
different manufacturer.
40. Describe the process for applying for an Authority Required (Written) prescription.
Step 1: Prescriber applies to PBS authority for approval.
Step 2: Upon approval, patient receives authority prescription.
Step 3: Pharmacist dispenses under authority rules.
Answer: Approval, written authority prescription, then dispensing.
Cultural Competence
41. Describe how to support a patient with low English proficiency.
Step 1: Use interpreter services if available.
Step 2: Speak slowly and use simple language.
Step 3: Provide written materials in native language.
Answer: Use interpreters, clear language, and translated materials.
42. List cultural factors that can influence medicine adherence.
Beliefs about illness, language barriers, family roles, traditional medicine use.
Answer: Culture shapes attitudes, understanding, and adherence.
43. How do you deliver respectful care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
patients?
Step 1: Show cultural awareness and sensitivity.
Step 2: Use culturally appropriate communication.
Step 3: Engage with community resources if possible.
Answer: Respect culture, communicate appropriately, and collaborate.
ChatGPT said:
44. What is cultural responsiveness?
Step 1: The ability to interact effectively with people from different cultures.
Step 2: Adapt communication and care to cultural context.
Answer: Being flexible and respectful to diverse cultural needs.
45. Describe the impact of unconscious bias in pharmacy.
Step 1: Affects treatment decisions and patient trust.
Step 2: Leads to unequal care and poor outcomes.
Answer: Bias reduces care quality and worsens disparities.
46. How can pharmacists reduce medicine misuse in the community?
Educate patients, monitor usage, refer when needed.
Answer: Provide counselling and monitor medicine safety.
47. Describe QUM strategies for mental health medications.
Step 1: Encourage adherence.
Step 2: Monitor for side effects.
Step 3: Collaborate with healthcare team.
Answer: Educate, monitor, and collaborate.
48. Explain the pharmacist’s role in QUM for chronic diseases.
Step 1: Review medication regimens.
Step 2: Educate patients.
Step 3: Prevent interactions or overuse.
Answer: Ensure safe, effective, and rational medicine use.
49. What resources support QUM in Australia?
NPS MedicineWise, Therapeutic Guidelines, PBS website.
Answer: Trusted resources guide evidence-based practice.
50. Describe how Home Medicines Reviews support QUM.
Step 1: Identify inappropriate use.
Step 2: Educate patient at home.
Step 3: Communicate findings to GP.
Answer: HMRs optimise use, safety, and understanding.
51. Describe how AI is used in pharmacy inventory systems.
Step 1: Track stock levels automatically.
Step 2: Predict demand and expiry.
Answer: AI improves inventory accuracy and efficiency.
52. What are risks of over-reliance on AI in clinical decision-making?
Step 1: Reduced human oversight.
Step 2: Algorithm bias or error.
Answer: Over-reliance may cause incorrect or unsafe care.
53. How can AI improve prescription accuracy?
Step 1: Identify potential interactions.
Step 2: Flag incorrect doses.
Answer: AI supports safety checks and alerts.
54. List ethical concerns related to patient data and AI.
Privacy, consent, bias, accountability.
Answer: Ethics involve protecting rights and transparency.
55. Name an example of an AI tool used in Australian pharmacy practice.
Example: Fred IT eRx Script Exchange (e-prescribing with AI integration).
Answer: Fred IT systems or real-time prescription monitoring tools.
Numeracy
56. A patient is prescribed 0.5 mg/kg of a drug daily. For a 70 kg patient, what is the
total daily dose?
Step 1: Multiply dose per kg by patient weight.
0.5 mg/kg × 70 kg = 35 mg
Answer: 35 mg daily.
57. Calculate how many mL of a 10 mg/mL solution are needed to give a 250 mg dose.
Step 1: Use formula Volume = Dose ÷ Concentration
Volume = 250 mg ÷ 10 mg/mL = 25 mL
Answer: 25 mL.
58. A medication label says 2.5 mg per tablet. How many tablets provide 15 mg?
Step 1: Divide required dose by dose per tablet.
15 mg ÷ 2.5 mg/tablet = 6 tablets
Answer: 6 tablets.
59. Convert 750 micrograms (mcg) to milligrams (mg).
Step 1: Know that 1000 mcg = 1 mg
750 mcg = 750 ÷ 1000 = 0.75 mg
Answer: 0.75 mg.
60. A drug needs to be diluted to 0.2 mg/mL from a 1 mg/mL stock solution. How many
mL of stock are needed for 50 mL final volume?
Step 1: Use dilution formula C1V1 = C2V2
C1 = 1 mg/mL, C2 = 0.2 mg/mL, V2 = 50 mL
V1 = (C2 × V2) ÷ C1 = (0.2 × 50) ÷ 1 = 10 mL stock
Answer: 10 mL stock solution + 40 mL diluent.
Writing Skills
61. Correct the spelling mistakes: "The patient recieved the mediction late."
Step 1: Identify errors: "recieved" and "mediction"
Correct spelling: "received" and "medication"
Answer: "The patient received the medication late."
62. Write a brief patient advice note on managing side effects of antihistamines.
Step 1: Mention common side effects: drowsiness, dry mouth
Step 2: Suggest avoiding driving or operating machinery
Step 3: Encourage drinking water and resting
Answer: "Antihistamines may cause drowsiness and dry mouth. Avoid driving and
drink plenty of water. Contact your pharmacist if side effects persist."
63. Draft a professional apology letter for a dispensing delay.
Step 1: Acknowledge the delay
Step 2: Apologise sincerely
Step 3: Explain cause briefly (if appropriate)
Step 4: Offer solution or reassurance
Answer:
"Dear [Patient Name],
We apologise for the delay in dispensing your medication caused by [reason]. We
appreciate your patience and are working to ensure timely service in future. Please
contact us for any concerns."
64. Summarise a patient’s medication history in 3 sentences.
Step 1: Identify main conditions treated
Step 2: List key medications and dosages
Step 3: Mention adherence or side effects if relevant
Answer:
"The patient is being treated for hypertension and diabetes. They are currently
prescribed lisinopril 10 mg daily and metformin 500 mg twice daily. The patient
reports good adherence with no major side effects."
65. Rewrite this sentence to improve clarity: "The drug should be taken after food to
avoid stomach upset."
Step 1: Make sentence more direct and simple
Answer: "Take the medicine after meals to prevent stomach upset."
Professional Behaviours
66. Explain why ongoing professional development is important for pharmacists.
Step 1: Keeps knowledge and skills current
Step 2: Ensures safe, effective patient care
Step 3: Meets professional registration requirements
Answer: Ongoing professional development helps pharmacists stay updated with new
medicines and best practices to provide safe and effective care and maintain their
professional registration.
67. What is the pharmacist’s role when confronted with a workplace conflict?
Step 1: Remain calm and professional
Step 2: Communicate openly and respectfully
Step 3: Seek resolution or mediation if needed
Answer: Pharmacists should handle conflicts calmly, communicate respectfully, and
seek resolution to maintain a professional workplace.
68. How should you handle confidential information shared in a team meeting?
Step 1: Keep information within the team as needed
Step 2: Avoid discussing outside relevant context
Step 3: Follow privacy laws and workplace policy
Answer: Confidential information must be kept secure and only shared with
authorized personnel.
69. Describe respectful communication techniques in a busy pharmacy.
Step 1: Use polite language and tone
Step 2: Listen actively without interrupting
Step 3: Be clear and concise
Answer: Use polite, clear language; listen carefully; and remain patient to maintain
respect.
70. What actions demonstrate accountability in medication safety?
Step 1: Report errors or near misses promptly
Step 2: Follow protocols and double-check work
Step 3: Take responsibility for corrections and learning
Answer: Taking responsibility, reporting errors, and adhering to safety protocols
show accountability.
Ethics/Bioethics
71. Discuss how pharmacists balance autonomy and beneficence when patients refuse
treatment.
Step 1: Respect patient’s right to choose (autonomy)
Step 2: Provide information on benefits and risks (beneficence)
Step 3: Support patient’s informed decision
Answer: Pharmacists respect decisions while educating patients about health benefits,
supporting informed choices.
72. What ethical principles apply when deciding to provide off-label medicines?
Step 1: Ensure safety and efficacy evidence
Step 2: Obtain informed consent
Step 3: Prioritize patient wellbeing (non-maleficence and beneficence)
Answer: Safety, informed consent, and patient welfare guide off-label use ethically.
73. Describe the pharmacist’s responsibility in ensuring equitable access to medicines.
Step 1: Provide unbiased care regardless of patient background
Step 2: Assist with affordable options like PBS
Step 3: Advocate for patients in need
Answer: Pharmacists must ensure fair access and support affordability for all
patients.
74. How should a pharmacist act if a patient discloses illegal drug use?
Step 1: Maintain confidentiality
Step 2: Provide non-judgmental support and advice
Step 3: Refer to specialist services if appropriate
Answer: Confidentially support the patient and offer referrals without judgment.
75. Explain ethical considerations around consent for participation in clinical trials.
Step 1: Ensure voluntary participation
Step 2: Provide full information on risks and benefits
Step 3: Protect participant’s rights and welfare
Answer: Consent must be informed, voluntary, and respect participant rights.
Compounding Medicines
76. How do you calculate the quantity of each ingredient for a 100g 1% w/w cream?
Step 1: 1% of 100g = 1g active ingredient
Step 2: Base quantity = 100g – 1g = 99g
Answer: Use 1g active ingredient and 99g base.
77. Describe how to prepare a compounded oral suspension from a powder.
Step 1: Accurately weigh powder
Step 2: Add vehicle incrementally while mixing
Step 3: Ensure uniform suspension and label with directions
Answer: Weigh powder, mix gradually with liquid vehicle to form uniform
suspension, label properly.
78. What are the risks of cross-contamination in compounding, and how can they be
minimised?
Step 1: Risks include contamination between products causing harm
Step 2: Use dedicated equipment and clean thoroughly
Step 3: Follow good manufacturing practices
Answer: Use separate tools, clean well, and follow protocols to avoid contamination.
79. List steps for maintaining sterility when compounding intravenous medicines.
Step 1: Use sterile gloves and masks
Step 2: Work in a laminar flow hood
Step 3: Disinfect surfaces and containers
Step 4: Minimize air disturbances
Answer: Employ aseptic technique, sterile equipment, and controlled environment.
80. Why must compounded medicines be clearly labelled with expiry dates?
Step 1: To ensure patients do not use degraded or unsafe products
Step 2: To comply with regulations
Step 3: To allow proper stock management
Answer: Labels protect patient safety and ensure regulatory compliance.
Privacy and Confidentiality
81. How do you handle a request from law enforcement for patient medication records?
Step 1: Verify the legitimacy of the request
Step 2: Check legal requirements (e.g., warrant or subpoena)
Step 3: Consult legal or compliance officer if unsure
Step 4: Release only legally permissible information
Answer: Confirm legality, follow laws, and consult before releasing info.
82. Describe how to maintain confidentiality during telephone consultations.
Step 1: Confirm patient identity
Step 2: Speak in a private area
Step 3: Avoid discussing sensitive info if others can overhear
Answer: Verify identity, choose private space, and maintain discretion.
83. What training should pharmacy staff receive regarding privacy laws?
Step 1: Overview of relevant legislation (e.g., Privacy Act)
Step 2: Procedures for handling patient info
Step 3: Incident reporting and breach management
Answer: Staff need education on laws, procedures, and breach protocols.
84. Explain the importance of secure disposal of patient records.
Step 1: Prevent unauthorized access to personal data
Step 2: Protect patient privacy and comply with laws
Answer: Secure disposal ensures confidentiality and legal compliance.
85. What are patients’ rights regarding access to their medical information?
Step 1: Right to view and obtain copies of records
Step 2: Request corrections if inaccurate
Step 3: Understand how data is used and shared
Answer: Patients can access, correct, and understand use of their info.
Medicines Supply
86. How do you report and handle a suspected counterfeit medicine?
Step 1: Quarantine the product immediately
Step 2: Report to relevant authorities (e.g., TGA)
Step 3: Document details and inform supplier
Answer: Isolate product, report promptly, and keep records.
87. Describe the correct procedure for managing Schedule 8 medicine stock
discrepancies.
Step 1: Investigate discrepancy promptly
Step 2: Report to regulatory authority if required
Step 3: Review security and recording practices
Answer: Investigate, report, and improve controls.
88. Explain how pharmacists manage temperature-sensitive vaccines.
Step 1: Store in recommended temperature (2-8°C)
Step 2: Monitor storage temperature continuously
Step 3: Follow cold chain during transport
Answer: Maintain proper temperature and document storage.
89. What documentation is required for dispensing restricted medicines?
Step 1: Valid prescription with appropriate authority
Step 2: Record in dispensing register if applicable
Step 3: Patient counseling record
Answer: Keep prescription, log dispensing, and counsel patient.
90. How can technology assist in managing pharmacy inventory effectively?
Step 1: Automated stock tracking
Step 2: Alerts for expiry and low stock
Step 3: Integration with ordering systems
Answer: Technology helps monitor, alert, and streamline orders.
PBS / TGA
91. What is the role of the TGA in regulating complementary medicines?
Step 1: Evaluate safety and quality of listed products
Step 2: Ensure truthful advertising and labeling
Answer: TGA regulates safety, quality, and advertising standards.
92. Explain how the PBS Safety Net benefits patients with chronic conditions.
Step 1: Caps annual out-of-pocket medicine costs
Step 2: After threshold reached, medicines are cheaper or free
Answer: Limits patient costs for ongoing medicine needs.
93. What are the differences between PBS general and concessional patient categories?
Step 1: Concessional patients pay lower co-payments
Step 2: Eligibility based on income or social support
Answer: Concessional category reduces medicine cost based on eligibility.
94. Describe the Authority Required prescription process.
Step 1: Prescriber applies for PBS authority approval
Step 2: Pharmacist verifies authority on prescription
Step 3: Dispense subsidised medicine accordingly
Answer: Prescription requires prior approval before PBS subsidy.
95. How can pharmacists assist patients in understanding PBS co-payments?
Step 1: Explain what co-payment means
Step 2: Inform about PBS Safety Net and concessions
Step 3: Help patients identify eligibility
Answer: Educate patients about costs, concessions, and Safety Net.
Cultural Competence
96. What are some barriers to healthcare access faced by culturally diverse
populations?
Language, mistrust, health literacy, cultural beliefs, and discrimination.
Answer: Various factors limit access including communication and cultural barriers.
97. How can interpreters be effectively used in pharmacy consultations?
Use qualified interpreters
Speak directly to patient, not interpreter
Use clear, simple language
Answer: Use trained interpreters and engage patient directly.
98. Describe strategies to respect traditional healing practices in patient care.
Ask about cultural preferences
Incorporate safe traditional practices when possible
Communicate respectfully about treatment plans
Answer: Respect beliefs and integrate safely with conventional care.
99. Why is it important to avoid stereotyping in healthcare?
It leads to bias, mistrust, and poor patient outcomes.
Answer: Avoiding stereotypes ensures equitable and respectful care.
100. How can pharmacies create a welcoming environment for diverse populations?
Multilingual signage, cultural awareness training, flexible service options.
Answer: Inclusive environment through communication and staff training.