Qualified Medication Aides (QMA) Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of a cardiotonic medication?

1. Atorvastatin

2. Digoxin

3. Aspirin

4. Amiodarone

The correct answer is: Digoxin

A cardiotonic medication is one that affects the contractility of the heart muscle. Digoxin is a prime example of this type of medication, as it works by increasing the force of heart contractions, which can be particularly beneficial for patients with heart failure or certain types of arrhythmias. Digoxin also helps to regulate heart rate and can improve symptoms of heart failure by allowing the heart to pump more efficiently. This unique mechanism of action differentiates it from the other medications listed, which do not have the same focus on enhancing heart muscle contractility. For instance, atorvastatin is primarily a cholesterol-lowering medication, aspirin is an antiplatelet agent, and amiodarone is a medication used to manage arrhythmias rather than specifically enhancing contractility. Understanding the specific purposes and mechanisms of these drugs is essential for effective patient care and medication management.