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 A
Explanation
Answer: (A) Inject 20 units of air into the vial of NPH insulin.
Rationale:
A) Inject 20 units of air into the vial of NPH insulin:
Injecting air into the vial of NPH insulin is the first step to prevent creating a vacuum, which could make it difficult to withdraw the insulin later. The nurse must inject the corresponding amount of air for the dose needed, ensuring that the insulin can be withdrawn smoothly and accurately without bubbles, which could affect the dose.
B) Inject 5 units of air into the vial of regular insulin:
Injecting air into the regular insulin vial is also necessary before withdrawing the insulin, but it should be done after injecting air into the NPH vial. This sequence ensures that no NPH insulin contaminates the regular insulin vial when the nurse withdraws the doses later.
C) Withdraw 20 units of NPH insulin from the vial:
Withdrawing NPH insulin should be done after air is injected into both vials and after the regular insulin has been drawn up. This sequence prevents the mixing of the two types of insulin and ensures accurate dosing, which is crucial for maintaining the correct blood glucose levels.
D) Withdraw 5 units of regular insulin from the vial:
Withdrawing regular insulin is critical to do before the NPH insulin to prevent contamination of the regular insulin with NPH, which could alter the onset and peak times of the regular insulin. However, it should follow the steps of injecting air into both vials, starting with the NPH vial.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
c. The bedroom extension cord is placed under a heavy nightstand.
The nurse should intervene and address the placement of the bedroom extension cord under a heavy nightstand. This poses a safety hazard as it increases the risk of electrical fire or tripping. The nurse shouldmeducate the client about the importance of using proper outlets and avoiding the use of extension cords in general, especially when they are hidden under heavy furniture.
Options a, b, and d do not require immediate intervention by the nurse:
a. The television set turned to a loud volume can be addressed by educating the client about the potential risks of prolonged exposure to loud noises and providing guidance on appropriate volume levels.
b. The presence of low chairs with no armrests in the dining room may not necessarily require immediate intervention unless there are specific safety concerns related to the client's mobility or balance. The nurse may provide general recommendations for safer seating options, especially if the client is at risk of falls or has difficulty getting up from low chairs.
d. The presence of wall-to-wall carpeting in the living room is a common feature in many homes and does not necessarily pose a safety hazard. However, the nurse may discuss general home safety measures, such as keeping the carpet clean and free of tripping hazards, especially for clients with mobility issues.
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