The nurse is administering a prescribed medication to neonatal client. Which factor is most likely to increase the risk for drug toxicity in this client?

A) The stomach acid has a lower pH level which results in increased absorption: While it is true that neonates have a lower gastric pH, which could affect the absorption of certain medications, this factor does not directly increase the risk for drug toxicity. Lower pH may increase absorption for some drugs, but it is not as critical in neonates as the immaturity of other organs, such as the liver and kidneys, which are responsible for drug metabolism and excretion.

B) The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is increased causing rapid excretion: In neonates, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is actually decreased, not increased. This leads to slower excretion of medications, which can increase the risk for drug toxicity, especially for drugs that rely on renal elimination. This decreased renal function can result in accumulation of the drug in the bloodstream, potentially leading to toxicity.

C) The liver enzyme system responsible for drug metabolism is not fully developed: The liver enzyme system in neonates is immature, which significantly impacts the metabolism of drugs. Enzymatic activity is critical for breaking down medications to their active or inactive forms. Due to the underdeveloped liver function, drugs may not be metabolized properly, leading to a longer half-life and an increased risk for drug toxicity. This is a key factor in the increased risk of toxicity in neonatal clients.

D) The albumin levels are elevated due to rapid growth and protein binding is enhanced: Neonates typically have lower albumin levels, not elevated levels. Albumin is crucial for binding medications, and lower levels in neonates can result in more free (unbound) drug circulating in the bloodstream, which can increase the risk of drug toxicity. Elevated albumin would theoretically reduce this risk, but this is not typically the case in neonates.