Question

The physiologic changes that normally occur in an older adult have which of the following implications for the nurse who is assessing drug response in that patient?

a) Decreased risk of adverse effects
b) Increased metabolism of drugs
c) Reduced renal and hepatic function
d) Drug half-life is lengthened

Answer 1

Physiologic changes in older adults, such as reduced renal and hepatic function, lead to a lengthened drug half-life and increased risk of adverse drug effects. It is crucial for healthcare providers to consider these changes when treating older patients.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks about the implications of the physiologic changes that occur in an older adult for a nurse assessing drug response in that patient. The correct answer to this question is that these changes often lead to reduced renal and hepatic function, which means that the metabolism and excretion of drugs can be impaired. As a result, drug half-life is generally lengthened in the elderly due to the body's decreased ability to clear medications, leading to an increased risk of adverse effects. It is essential for healthcare providers to take these changes into account when prescribing and managing medications in older adults.

Furthermore, aging is associated with biological changes that affect many systems of the body. This often results in homeostatic imbalance and increased susceptibility to disease. Important changes relating to pharmacokinetics include a decrease in the basal metabolic rate, possible decrease in body fat, and the potential for osteoporosis. These factors all have the potential to alter drug distribution, metabolism, and elimination.