The nurse is caring for a client who needs to have a peak drug level drawn. The client was given an oral medication 30 minutes ago. What is the best action by the nurse?

A. Absorption:
Chronic liver failure primarily affects the metabolism of drugs rather than their absorption. While liver disease can impact various bodily functions, the absorption of medications is generally more influenced by gastrointestinal factors and not as directly affected by liver function.

B. Excretion:
Excretion of drugs is primarily managed by the kidneys, not the liver. While liver failure can lead to changes in drug metabolism, it does not directly impair the excretion process, which is largely renal. However, compromised liver function can indirectly affect renal excretion due to altered pharmacokinetics.

C. Metabolism:
Liver failure significantly affects drug metabolism. The liver is the primary site for the metabolism of many medications, converting drugs into more water-soluble compounds for excretion. In chronic liver failure, the liver's ability to metabolize drugs is impaired, leading to potential drug accumulation and increased risk of toxicity. This step of pharmacokinetics is most directly impacted by liver dysfunction.

D. Distribution:
While liver function can affect drug distribution to some extent, it is not as directly impacted as metabolism. Distribution can be influenced by factors such as changes in plasma protein levels and blood flow, but the liver's primary role in drug metabolism is more directly affected by chronic liver failure.

A) Right to education: While educating patients about their medications is important, it is not one of the traditional Five Rights of Medication Administration. Education ensures that patients understand their treatment, potential side effects, and the importance of adherence, but it is not a core component of the Five Rights.

B) Right Dose: Ensuring the correct dose is administered is crucial to avoid underdosing or overdosing, which can lead to ineffective treatment or adverse effects. The right dose is determined based on factors such as the patient’s age, weight, and medical condition.

C) Right Drug: Administering the correct drug is essential to ensure the patient receives the intended therapeutic effect. This involves verifying the medication name, checking for potential drug interactions, and confirming the prescription details.

D) Right Patient: Verifying the patient’s identity before administering medication is critical to prevent medication errors. This typically involves checking the patient’s wristband, asking for their name and date of birth, and cross-referencing with the medication order.

E) Right Assessment: While assessing the patient before medication administration is important, it is not one of the traditional Five Rights. Assessment involves evaluating the patient’s condition, allergies, and potential contraindications to ensure safe medication administration.

F) Right Evaluation: Evaluating the patient’s response to medication is important for ongoing care, but it is not one of the traditional Five Rights. Evaluation helps determine the effectiveness of the medication and identify any adverse reactions or need for dosage adjustments.