If a medication remains in the body of an elderly client for a longer period of time resulting in a longer half-life of the medication, what dosage adjustment would the nurse anticipate to be prescribed?
No adjustment unless the IV route was used
A decreased dose due to declining physiological function
An increased dose due to incomplete physiological functioning
No adjustment as a greater therapeutic response is expected from the elderly client
The Correct Answer is B
A. No adjustment unless the IV route was used: The route of administration does not negate the necessity for dosage titration in geriatric populations. Intravenous delivery bypasses first-pass metabolism but still relies on hepatic and renal clearance. Pharmacokinetic changes in the elderly affect all systemic pharmacological interventions.
B. A decreased dose due to declining physiological function: Age-related reductions in glomerular filtration rate and hepatic blood flow prolong drug half-life. Accumulation of active metabolites increases the risk of systemic toxicity and adverse drug events. Lowering the total dose ensures plasma concentrations remain within the therapeutic window.
C. An increased dose due to incomplete physiological functioning: Raising the dosage in a client with impaired clearance would lead to dangerous drug accumulation. Incomplete physiological functioning implies a reduced capacity to process and eliminate chemical substances. This action would likely precipitate an overdose or severe side effects.
D. No adjustment as a greater therapeutic response is expected from the elderly client: While elderly clients may be more sensitive to certain drugs, this does not justify maintaining standard doses. A prolonged half-life indicates the drug persists in the bloodstream longer than intended. Adjustments are required to prevent physiological harm regardless of the perceived response.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The client usually starts the day at 0730: Maintaining a consistent wake-up time is a core principle of effective sleep hygiene. This practice helps regulate the circadian rhythm and promotes easier sleep onset the following night. It does not warrant further clinical discussion or corrective intervention by the nurse.
B. The client exercises before going to bed to "feel more tired": Vigorous physical activity within 2 to 3 hours of bedtime increases core body temperature and stimulates cortisol release. This physiological arousal interferes with the natural transition into sleep. Exercise should be scheduled earlier in the day to facilitate proper nocturnal cooling.
C. "If I am hungry after dinner, peanut butter on crackers is a typical snack for me": A light snack containing complex carbohydrates and protein can promote sleep by facilitating tryptophan entry into the brain. It prevents hunger-induced awakenings without causing significant gastrointestinal distress. This habit is generally supportive of healthy sleep patterns and needs no change.
D. The client drinks sparkling water infused with fruit juice throughout the afternoon and evening to avoid caffeine: Eliminating caffeine in the latter half of the day reduces the risk of chemical sleep interference. Since the beverages are caffeine-free, they do not act as stimulants. This choice reflects a positive adjustment to improve sleep quality and requires no intervention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will pack the wound with NSS soaked gauze every other day until my next appointment.": Wet-to-dry dressings are often contraindicated for Stage 2 injuries as they can damage fragile regenerating epithelial tissue. Furthermore, packing should be done daily if used, as "every other day" allows the dressing to dry and adhere. This reflects poor wound care technique.
B. "I will increase my daily intake of foods such as almonds, eggs, and chicken.": Protein is essential for collagen synthesis and tissue repair in chronic pressure injuries. Almonds, eggs, and chicken provide high-quality amino acids necessary for the proliferative phase of healing. Nutritional optimization is a cornerstone of successful long-term wound management.
C. "I will apply Santyl ointment daily to the peri-wound to moisturize!": Santyl is a collagenase enzyme used for debriding necrotic tissue, not for moisturizing healthy skin. Applying it to the peri-wound area can cause significant skin irritation and maceration. It should only be applied directly to the wound bed if slough is present.
D. "I should stay in my wheelchair for all meals and activities.": Remaining seated for extended periods increases sustained pressure on the sacrum, which caused the initial injury. Patients with sacral ulcers must be taught to offload pressure every 15 minutes while seated. Continuous sitting would impede blood flow and prevent the wound from healing.
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