A nurse is reviewing a new medication order for a geriatric client. Which pharmacokinetic factor is most likely to be affected by the client's age?
Metabolism
Absorption
Distribution
Excretion
The Correct Answer is D
A. Metabolism: While hepatic metabolism can decrease with age, the reduction is often variable and depends on liver function. Some medications are metabolized efficiently even in older adults, so metabolism is not always the most significantly affected pharmacokinetic factor.
B. Absorption: Aging has minimal effect on gastrointestinal absorption. Most oral medications are absorbed similarly in geriatric clients as in younger adults, so absorption is generally not significantly altered.
C. Distribution: Age-related changes in body composition, such as increased fat and decreased lean body mass, can alter drug distribution. However, these changes primarily affect lipophilic drugs and are less universally impactful than excretion.
D. Excretion: Renal function declines with age due to decreased glomerular filtration rate and renal blood flow. This reduction significantly affects the elimination of many drugs, increasing the risk of drug accumulation and toxicity. Monitoring renal function is critical when dosing medications in geriatric clients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Anemia: Ferrous sulfate is an iron supplement used to treat iron-deficiency anemia. It provides the iron needed for hemoglobin synthesis, which increases red blood cell production and improves oxygen-carrying capacity.
B. Hypertension: Ferrous sulfate has no effect on blood pressure. Antihypertensive medications, such as ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers, are used to manage hypertension.
C. Hyperthyroidism: Ferrous sulfate does not treat thyroid disorders. Hyperthyroidism requires medications that regulate thyroid hormone production, such as methimazole or propylthiouracil.
D. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Ferrous sulfate is not indicated for autoimmune or inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics are typically used instead.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Becomes part of hemoglobin and myoglobin to help carry and store oxygen throughout the body: Ferrous sulfate provides elemental iron, which is incorporated into hemoglobin and myoglobin. This increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells and improves tissue oxygenation, directly addressing iron deficiency anemia.
B. Increases heart rate and blood pressure: Ferrous sulfate does not have a direct effect on heart rate or blood pressure. Any changes in cardiovascular function are typically secondary to correction of anemia, not a pharmacologic action of the drug itself.
C. Promotes calcium absorption in the bones: Calcium absorption is not influenced by iron supplementation. Ferrous sulfate specifically targets hemoglobin and iron stores, not bone metabolism.
D. Enhances glucose metabolism: Iron supplementation does not affect glucose metabolism. Its therapeutic effect is limited to restoring iron levels and improving oxygen transport in the body.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
