MCQ Quiz: Introduction to First Aid and Skin Care

Welcome, PharmD students, to this MCQ quiz on Introduction to First Aid and Skin Care! Pharmacists are often the first point of contact for patients seeking advice on managing minor injuries, burns, insect bites, and common skin concerns. A solid understanding of basic first aid principles, appropriate use of non-prescription products for wound care and skin protection, and the ability to identify when self-care is appropriate versus when referral is needed, are essential skills. This quiz will test your foundational knowledge in these crucial areas of patient care. Let’s begin!

1. The primary goal of first aid for a minor wound (e.g., cut, abrasion) is to:

• a) Promote rapid scar formation.
• b) Cleanse the wound, prevent infection, and facilitate healing.
• c) Numb the area completely.
• d) Stop bleeding immediately, even if it means not cleaning the wound.

Answer: b) Cleanse the wound, prevent infection, and facilitate healing.

2. Which of the following is generally the first recommended step for cleansing a minor wound?

• a) Applying concentrated hydrogen peroxide.
• b) Gently washing the area with mild soap and clean, cool to lukewarm water.
• c) Scrubbing vigorously with isopropyl alcohol.
• d) Applying a thick layer of antibiotic ointment immediately.

Answer: b) Gently washing the area with mild soap and clean, cool to lukewarm water.

3. Topical antiseptics like povidone-iodine or hydrogen peroxide are best used for:

• a) Application directly into deep puncture wounds.
• b) Cleansing intact skin around a wound margin, rather than being poured directly into most minor wounds as they can be tissue-toxic.
• c) Daily application to all healing wounds.
• d) Sterilizing surgical instruments.

Answer: b) Cleansing intact skin around a wound margin, rather than being poured directly into most minor wounds as they can be tissue-toxic.

4. Topical antibiotic ointments (e.g., containing neomycin, bacitracin, polymyxin B) are used on minor wounds to:

• a) Speed up clot formation.
• b) Help prevent infection and keep the wound moist.
• c) Reduce pain instantly.
• d) Remove foreign debris.

Answer: b) Help prevent infection and keep the wound moist.

5. Which type of burn is characterized by redness, pain, and minor swelling, affecting only the epidermis (e.g., mild sunburn)?

• a) First-degree (superficial) burn
• b) Second-degree (superficial partial-thickness) burn
• c) Second-degree (deep partial-thickness) burn
• d) Third-degree (full-thickness) burn

Answer: a) First-degree (superficial) burn

6. Immediate self-care for a minor thermal burn (e.g., from hot water) involves:

• a) Applying butter or grease to the burn.
• b) Immersing the burned area in cool (not ice-cold) running water or applying cool compresses for about 10-15 minutes.
• c) Immediately covering it with a tight, dry bandage.
• d) Breaking any blisters that form.

Answer: b) Immersing the burned area in cool (not ice-cold) running water or applying cool compresses for about 10-15 minutes.

7. Which of the following situations involving a burn would warrant immediate medical referral rather than self-treatment?

• a) A small first-degree burn on the arm.
• b) A burn involving the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints, or a chemical/electrical burn.
• c) A superficial sunburn covering less than 5% of body surface area.
• d) A burn that causes mild pain.

Answer: b) A burn involving the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints, or a chemical/electrical burn.

8. Aloe vera gel is often used in skin care for its potential properties in:

• a) Providing strong sun protection (SPF 50+).
• b) Soothing minor burns, sunburns, and skin irritations.
• c) Exfoliating dead skin cells.
• d) Treating severe bacterial infections.

Answer: b) Soothing minor burns, sunburns, and skin irritations.

9. The primary goal of basic skin care is to:

• a) Achieve a permanent tan.
• b) Maintain skin integrity, hydration, and protect it from environmental damage.
• c) Eliminate all natural skin oils.
• d) Change the skin’s natural pH.

Answer: b) Maintain skin integrity, hydration, and protect it from environmental damage.

10. Xerosis is the medical term for:

• a) Oily skin
• b) Acne
• c) Dry skin
• d) Skin infection

Answer: c) Dry skin

11. Which type of moisturizer ingredient forms a protective barrier on the skin surface to prevent water loss?

• a) Humectants (e.g., glycerin)
• b) Occlusives (e.g., petrolatum, lanolin)
• c) Keratolytics (e.g., salicylic acid)
• d) Astringents (e.g., witch hazel)

Answer: b) Occlusives (e.g., petrolatum, lanolin)

12. For general skin hygiene, it is advisable to use:

• a) Very hot water and harsh, alkaline soaps.
• b) Lukewarm water and mild, non-irritating cleansers.
• c) Abrasive scrubs daily on all skin types.
• d) No cleansing products at all.

Answer: b) Lukewarm water and mild, non-irritating cleansers.

13. Which of the following is a common symptom of an uncomplicated insect bite (e.g., mosquito)?

• a) High fever and muscle aches.
• b) Localized itching, redness, and a small welt.
• c) Difficulty breathing and swelling of the throat.
• d) Numbness spreading up the limb.

Answer: b) Localized itching, redness, and a small welt.

14. Self-treatment options for relieving the itch of a minor insect bite include:

• a) Applying concentrated acid.
• b) Topical hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, or an oral antihistamine if itching is significant.
• c) Vigorous scratching of the bite.
• d) Applying a heating pad.

Answer: b) Topical hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, or an oral antihistamine if itching is significant.

15. The SCHOLAR-MAC acronym is a tool pharmacists can use during patient assessment. The ‘S’ stands for:

• a) Severity
• b) Symptoms
• c) Source
• d) Solutions

Answer: b) Symptoms

16. When should a patient with a minor wound seek medical attention for a potential infection?

• a) If the wound is healing cleanly without any redness.
• b) If there are signs like increasing pain, redness spreading from the wound, warmth, swelling, or pus.
• c) Only if they develop a high fever.
• d) After the wound has completely closed.

Answer: b) If there are signs like increasing pain, redness spreading from the wound, warmth, swelling, or pus.

17. Which of the following is a non-pharmacological measure to help manage dry skin?

• a) Taking long, hot baths daily.
• b) Using a humidifier in dry environments.
• c) Avoiding all moisturizers.
• d) Frequent use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers without follow-up moisturizing.

Answer: b) Using a humidifier in dry environments.

18. Sunburn is an acute inflammatory reaction of the skin caused by excessive exposure to:

• a) Infrared radiation
• b) Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily UVB
• c) Visible light
• d) Blue light from screens

Answer: b) Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily UVB

19. For mild sunburn pain and inflammation, an appropriate OTC oral analgesic would be:

• a) Aspirin (in adults, caution in children)
• b) Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• c) Codeine
• d) Any topical antibiotic

Answer: b) Ibuprofen or acetaminophen

20. Petrolatum is a common skin protectant that works by:

• a) Chemically neutralizing irritants.
• b) Forming an occlusive barrier to prevent water loss and protect from external irritants.
• c) Absorbing excess moisture.
• d) Providing nutrients to the skin.

Answer: b) Forming an occlusive barrier to prevent water loss and protect from external irritants.

21. The QuEST method for patient assessment in self-care involves: Quickly and accurately assess the patient; Establish that the patient is an appropriate self-care candidate; Suggest appropriate self-care strategies; and __________.

• a) Treat the patient with prescription medication.
• b) Tell the patient to come back later.
• c) Talk with the patient about the strategies.
• d) Terminate the consultation quickly.

Answer: c) Talk with the patient about the strategies.

22. A key principle in selecting a wound dressing for a minor wound is to:

• a) Choose the smallest dressing possible, even if it doesn’t cover the wound.
• b) Keep the wound completely dry and open to the air at all times.
• c) Maintain a moist wound environment (for most wounds) and protect it from contamination.
• d) Use an adhesive tape directly on the wound bed.

Answer: c) Maintain a moist wound environment (for most wounds) and protect it from contamination.

23. What is a common symptom of allergic contact dermatitis due to poison ivy, oak, or sumac?

• a) Immediate pain and blistering upon contact.
• b) An intensely itchy, red rash with papules and vesicles, often in streaks where the plant brushed against the skin, appearing hours to days after exposure.
• c) A single, painless ulcer.
• d) Yellowish, greasy scales.

Answer: b) An intensely itchy, red rash with papules and vesicles, often in streaks where the plant brushed against the skin, appearing hours to days after exposure.

24. Initial self-care for exposure to poison ivy urushiol includes:

• a) Applying oil to the affected area.
• b) Vigorously scrubbing the skin with hot water.
• c) Gently washing the affected skin with soap and cool water as soon as possible (ideally within 10-20 minutes).
• d) Covering the area immediately with a thick bandage.

Answer: c) Gently washing the affected skin with soap and cool water as soon as possible (ideally within 10-20 minutes).

25. Calamine lotion can provide symptomatic relief for poison ivy rash by:

• a) Acting as an antifungal.
• b) Its astringent (drying) and soothing/antipruritic properties.
• c) Neutralizing the urushiol oil.
• d) Preventing future allergic reactions.

Answer: b) Its astringent (drying) and soothing/antipruritic properties.

26. Humectants (e.g., glycerin, urea, hyaluronic acid) in moisturizers work by:

• a) Forming a waterproof barrier on the skin.
• b) Attracting and holding water in the stratum corneum.
• c) Exfoliating dead skin cells.
• d) Providing a cooling sensation.

Answer: b) Attracting and holding water in the stratum corneum.

27. Which of these is an exclusion for self-treatment of an insect sting (e.g., bee, wasp)?

• a) Mild local swelling and pain at the sting site.
• b) History of previous sting without systemic reaction.
• c) Signs of anaphylaxis (e.g., difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives all over the body, dizziness, swelling of tongue/throat).
• d) The patient is an adult.

Answer: c) Signs of anaphylaxis (e.g., difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives all over the body, dizziness, swelling of tongue/throat).

28. If a bee stinger is visible in the skin, it should be removed by:

• a) Squeezing it with tweezers.
• b) Scraping it off horizontally with a fingernail or credit card edge.
• c) Leaving it in place to fall out naturally.
• d) Applying heat to it.

Answer: b) Scraping it off horizontally with a fingernail or credit card edge.

29. When applying topical first aid products, it is important to:

• a) Use them for prolonged periods without medical advice.
• b) Apply to clean skin as directed, and watch for any signs of local irritation or allergic reaction.
• c) Share them with other family members.
• d) Always cover with an occlusive dressing.

Answer: b) Apply to clean skin as directed, and watch for any signs of local irritation or allergic reaction.

30. A superficial abrasion (scrape) is best managed by self-care through:

• a) Leaving it open to the air without cleaning.
• b) Cleansing, applying a topical antibiotic if desired, and covering with a sterile dressing.
• c) Applying iodine directly into the wound.
• d) Covering it immediately with mud.

Answer: b) Cleansing, applying a topical antibiotic if desired, and covering with a sterile dressing.

31. The “M” in the SCHOLAR-MAC assessment mnemonic stands for:

• a) Money
• b) Medications (prescription, OTC, herbals, supplements)
• c) Maceration
• d) Morning symptoms

Answer: b) Medications (prescription, OTC, herbals, supplements)

32. Which factor is LEAST likely to contribute to dry skin?

• a) Low environmental humidity
• b) Frequent bathing with harsh soaps and hot water
• c) High dietary fat intake
• d) Advancing age

Answer: c) High dietary fat intake (Healthy fats can be beneficial for skin).

33. An emollient is a skincare ingredient that primarily helps to:

• a) Cleanse the skin.
• b) Soften and smooth the skin by filling in spaces between skin cells.
• c) Exfoliate the skin.
• d) Provide sun protection.

Answer: b) Soften and smooth the skin by filling in spaces between skin cells.

34. A common non-pharmacological recommendation for preventing recurrent athlete’s foot is to:

• a) Wear tight, non-breathable shoes.
• b) Keep feet moist at all times.
• c) Keep feet clean and dry, wear absorbent socks, and use antifungal powder in shoes.
• d) Share towels and footwear with others.

Answer: c) Keep feet clean and dry, wear absorbent socks, and use antifungal powder in shoes. (Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection, often covered under dermatology, but its prevention is general skin care).

35. When a patient asks for a recommendation for a minor skin issue, the pharmacist’s first step should be to:

• a) Immediately recommend the most expensive product.
• b) Gather sufficient information about the symptoms, patient history, and what has been tried (assess the situation).
• c) Tell the patient to see a doctor for all skin issues.
• d) Suggest a homeopathic remedy without assessment.

Answer: b) Gather sufficient information about the symptoms, patient history, and what has been tried (assess the situation).

36. Lacerations that are deep, gaping, or bleeding profusely are:

• a) Suitable for self-treatment with butterfly bandages.
• b) Exclusions for self-treatment and require medical evaluation.
• c) Best treated by applying direct heat.
• d) Always infected from the start.

Answer: b) Exclusions for self-treatment and require medical evaluation.

37. The primary difference between a chemical burn and a thermal burn lies in:

• a) The depth of tissue damage.
• b) The causative agent (chemical vs. heat).
• c) The need for cooling.
• d) The likelihood of infection.

Answer: b) The causative agent (chemical vs. heat). (Chemical burns often require specific neutralization/irrigation steps and immediate referral).

38. What is an important piece of advice for patients using topical hydrocortisone 0.5% or 1% for skin irritation?

• a) It can be used indefinitely on any part of the body.
• b) Apply a very thick layer for better results.
• c) Avoid use on broken skin (unless directed by a doctor for specific conditions) and do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice.
• d) It is a potent antifungal.

Answer: c) Avoid use on broken skin (unless directed by a doctor for specific conditions) and do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice.

39. One of the main goals of applying a dressing to a minor wound is to:

• a) Make the wound heal faster than if left open (for some wounds by maintaining moisture).
• b) Absorb excessive exudate, protect from contamination, and provide a moist healing environment.
• c) Ensure a prominent scar forms.
• d) Allow easy visual inspection at all times without removal.

Answer: b) Absorb excessive exudate, protect from contamination, and provide a moist healing environment.

40. If a patient has a puncture wound (e.g., from stepping on a nail), self-treatment is generally not appropriate due to risk of:

• a) Only minor bruising.
• b) Deep tissue infection, including tetanus, and retained foreign body.
• c) Sunburn at the site.
• d) Allergic reaction to the metal.

Answer: b) Deep tissue infection, including tetanus, and retained foreign body.

41. Key components of “basic skin care” include cleansing, moisturizing, and:

• a) Daily tanning.
• b) Protection (e.g., from sun exposure).
• c) Regular use of topical antibiotics.
• d) Applying makeup to cover all skin.

Answer: b) Protection (e.g., from sun exposure).

42. Which question from the SCHOLAR mnemonic helps to determine the duration of the patient’s symptoms?

• a) Symptoms
• b) Characteristics
• c) History
• d) Onset

Answer: d) Onset (Onset asks when it started, which helps determine duration).

43. A simple way to create a cool compress for first aid is to:

• a) Use a heated gel pack.
• b) Soak a clean cloth in cool water, wring it out, and apply to the affected area.
• c) Apply ice directly to the skin for 30 minutes.
• d) Use a dry paper towel.

Answer: b) Soak a clean cloth in cool water, wring it out, and apply to the affected area.

44. A patient experiences skin redness and irritation after trying a new laundry detergent. This is likely an example of:

• a) A thermal burn.
• b) An insect bite.
• c) Irritant or allergic contact dermatitis.
• d) A fungal infection.

Answer: c) Irritant or allergic contact dermatitis.

45. What is the pharmacist’s responsibility if a patient presents with a condition that is an exclusion for self-treatment?

• a) Attempt to treat it with stronger OTC products.
• b) Recommend an appropriate referral to a physician or other healthcare provider.
• c) Tell the patient there is no treatment available.
• d) Ignore the exclusion criteria if the patient insists on self-treatment.

Answer: b) Recommend an appropriate referral to a physician or other healthcare provider.

46. Keeping a minor wound covered with an appropriate dressing can help by:

• a) Exposing it to more bacteria.
• b) Preventing mechanical injury and maintaining a moist environment conducive to healing.
• c) Drying out the wound bed completely.
• d) Eliminating the need for cleaning.

Answer: b) Preventing mechanical injury and maintaining a moist environment conducive to healing.

47. For minor skin irritations where the skin is intact, a skin protectant like zinc oxide can:

• a) Act as an antibiotic.
• b) Form a barrier to protect the skin from moisture and external irritants.
• c) Exfoliate the skin.
• d) Numb the area.

Answer: b) Form a barrier to protect the skin from moisture and external irritants.

48. Which of the following is a sign of a systemic allergic reaction to an insect sting that requires emergency medical attention?

• a) Localized redness at the sting site.
• b) Mild itching around the sting.
• c) Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing.
• d) Pain that subsides within a few hours.

Answer: c) Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing.

49. One purpose of patient counseling on first aid and skin care products is to ensure:

• a) The patient buys the most expensive option.
• b) The patient understands how to use the product correctly, what to expect, and when to seek further medical care.
• c) The patient never needs to see a doctor again for these issues.
• d) The patient uses multiple products simultaneously for every condition.

Answer: b) The patient understands how to use the product correctly, what to expect, and when to seek further medical care.

50. The overall goal of providing self-care advice for first aid and minor skin conditions is to:

• a) Replace the need for physicians.
• b) Empower patients to appropriately manage minor ailments safely and effectively, and to recognize situations requiring medical referral.
• c) Promote the sale of as many OTC products as possible.
• d) Discourage patients from taking any action for their symptoms.

Answer: b) Empower patients to appropriately manage minor ailments safely and effectively, and to recognize situations requiring medical referral.