Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Which of the following behaviors signifies a pattern of compulsive drug-taking?

1. Taking medications as prescribed

2. Ordering substances online

3. Repeated self-administration despite harm

4. Discussing drug effects with a healthcare provider

The correct answer is: Repeated self-administration despite harm

The behavior that signifies a pattern of compulsive drug-taking is the repeated self-administration of substances despite experiencing harmful consequences. This behavior is characterized by an inability to control the use of a drug, leading to a cycle of addiction where the person continues to seek and use the substance regardless of negative physical, psychological, or social impacts. Individuals who engage in this behavior often ignore the adverse effects that the drug has on their health, relationships, or responsibilities, showing a pronounced compulsive nature towards their drug use. This pattern highlights a significant aspect of substance use disorders where the drug-taking behavior becomes a primary focus in the person's life, often overriding other important aspects of their well-being. In contrast, taking medications as prescribed typically reflects responsible and healthy behavior, while discussing drug effects with a healthcare provider indicates a level of awareness and concern for one’s health. Ordering substances online can suggest risky behavior but does not inherently reflect the compulsive nature seen in repeated self-administration despite harm.