Medical Office Assistant · Foundational Medical Knowledge

Indications, Adverse Effects, and Contraindications

On this page 3 sections
  1. Quick check
  2. Study tools
  3. Sources & references

Quick check

5 questions here, of 85 in this lesson’s practice set. Answers stay hidden until you check.

Question 1 of 5foundational

In medication use, the term indication refers to which of the following?

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Question 2 of 5foundational

An adverse effect is best defined as:

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Question 3 of 5foundational

A contraindication is best described as:

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Question 4 of 5foundational

Which statement best describes a side effect of a medication?

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Question 5 of 5intermediate

A key difference between a side effect and an adverse effect is that:

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Study tools & related lessonsYou’ll learn to · Related

You’ll learn to

  • Define indication, adverse effect, side effect, and contraindication.
  • Distinguish adverse effects from side effects, allergic reactions, and the intended therapeutic effect.
  • Recognize common and serious adverse effects and determine when to escalate to licensed staff.
  • Describe documentation and reporting of suspected adverse effects, including the FDA MedWatch program.

Sources & references

  1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration — Drugs
  2. National Library of Medicine — DailyMed - Drug Labeling
  3. U.S. National Library of Medicine — MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

This lesson was adapted from the open educational references above; their licenses and attributions are preserved. See Copyright & Licensing.

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