A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for an older adult client. Which of the following physiological changes should the nurse recommend considering when administering medication?
Increased liver function
Increased metabolism
Decreased pulmonary function
Decreased kidney function
The Correct Answer is D
As individuals age, there is a natural decline in kidney function. This can result in a reduced ability to filter and excrete medications and their metabolites from the body. The decreased kidney function can lead to a longer half-life of medications, increased drug accumulation, and an increased risk of adverse drug reactions. It is important for the nurse to adjust medication dosages and frequencies based on the individual's renal function to prevent drug toxicity.
Increased liver function: Aging is associated with a gradual decline in liver function. While there may be some individual variations, in general, liver function decreases rather than increases with age. However, changes in liver function can affect the metabolism and elimination of medications. Some medications may require dosage adjustments based on liver function, but it is not a common physiological change in older adults.
Increased metabolism: Aging is generally associated with a decrease in metabolism rather than an increase. The metabolic rate tends to slow down with age, which can affect the pharmacokinetics of medications. Slower metabolism can result in medications taking longer to be metabolized and cleared from the body, potentially leading to prolonged drug effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
To effectively communicate with a client who speaks a different language, it is important to use alternative methods of communication. One effective method is to supplement spoken language with pictures or visual aids. This can help bridge the language barrier and enhance understanding between the nurse and the client.
Recognize that the client nodding indicates an understanding of the information: Nodding does not always indicate understanding. It could be a cultural gesture or a sign of politeness. Relying solely on nodding may lead to miscommunication and misunderstanding.
Speak to the client at an increased volume: Speaking louder does not necessarily overcome the language barrier. It may make communication more difficult and could be perceived as rude or intimidating.
Ask a family member of the client to interpret: While involving a family member may seem helpful, it is not always reliable or appropriate. Family members may not be proficient in both languages or may not fully understand medical terminology. Additionally, the client may desire privacy or may not want to burden their family members with the responsibility of interpretation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The first action the nurse should plan to perform is to check the client's ability to use the call light. This is essential to ensure that the client can easily communicate with the healthcare team if they need assistance or experience a fall risk situation. By confirming the client's ability to use the call light, the nurse can address any potential communication barriers and ensure that the client has a means to request help promptly.
Explanation for the other options:
b) Document the client's risk in the medical record: While documenting the client's risk in the medical record is important, it is not the first action to be taken. Ensuring the client's immediate safety and ability to request assistance is the priority.
c) Request a referral for physical therapy: Referring the client for physical therapy may be a necessary step to address their impaired mobility and reduce fall risk, but it is not the first action to be performed. Assessing their ability to use the call light takes precedence in order to address immediate safety concerns.
d) Place a gait belt in the client's room: Providing a gait belt is a measure to assist with mobility and falls prevention. However, it should not be the first action. Checking the client's ability to use the call light is more critical to ensure their immediate safety and ability to request help.
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