72. Medications are absorbed differently with aging. A nurse should expect the dosage for an older adult to be:
72. Medications are absorbed differently with aging. A nurse should expect the dosage for an older adult to be:
. Doubled to achieve the same effectiveness.
. Reduced to prevent excessive systemic levels.
. Increased slightly to make up for diminished liver function.
. Monitored for reduced clinical effectiveness.
Test-Taking Tip
Remember: older adults are more sensitive to drug effects; therefore, eliminate Answers 1 and 3.
Content Area: Geriatrics, Aging Process; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies/Medication Administration
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Answer 1 is incorrect because older adults usually require lower dosages. Answer 2 is correct because changes in kidney and/or liver function will affect excretion of drugs. The chance of toxicity increases. Answer 3 is incorrect because liver impairment would result in a greater risk of toxicity from too high of a dosage. Answer 4 is incorrect because the monitoring should be for clinical effectiveness, not for reduced effectiveness.