Question 1

In speaking with an older adult, which question is likely to elicit the most accurate information about the individual's adherence to the medication plan?

Accepted Answer

This question is open-ended and non-judgmental, encouraging the individual to reflect and provide an honest estimate of missed doses without feeling pressured to give a socially desirable answer.

Question 2

The nurse prepares to administer vancomycin (Vancocin) to an older adult. Which laboratory test should the nurse review before administering this medication?

Accepted Answer

The nurse should review the patient's creatinine clearance before administering vancomycin, as this medication can be nephrotoxic (toxic to the kidneys) and may need to be adjusted or discontinued in patients with impaired renal function. Stool culture and serum potassium levels would not be relevant to vancomycin administration, and alkaline phosphatase is not typically used to monitor kidney function.

Question 3

The relationship of biological rhythms to variations in the body's response to drugs is known as chronopharmacology. When caring for an older adult with asthma, what information would help guide the nurse in planning the time to administer medication to the patient?

Accepted Answer

The asthma is most distressing between four and five A.M. This information suggests that the patient's asthma symptoms follow a circadian rhythm and may be related to the body's natural variations in respiratory function throughout the day. Administering medication at a time when symptoms are most likely to be severe can improve its effectiveness in managing asthma symptoms.

Question 4

Which of the following medications correctly matches the older adult condition given, according to current medical knowledge?

Accepted Answer

Buspirone is a safer and preferred option for treating chronic anxiety states in older adults due to its lower risk of side effects and drug interactions. Alprazolam and Amitriptyline carry a higher risk of side effects and should be used with caution in older adults. Haloperidol is not recommended for long-term use in older adults due to increased risks of movement disorders and cognitive impairment.

Question 5

Which pharmacokinetic parameter is affected most by decreased intestinal motility related to the aging process?

Accepted Answer

Decreased intestinal motility can lead to reduced absorption of orally administered drugs, as the drug may spend more time in the gastrointestinal tract and potentially be excreted before being fully absorbed.

Question 6

Which of the following processes is not increased in the early morning?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following processes is not...

Question 7

Mr. Perrault, 75 years of age, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease two years ago. Over the last 24 hours, he appears to have become more confused and agitated. Which of the following should the nurse consider as a possible cause of these symptoms, knowing that Mr. Perrault is receiving medication to alleviate some of his Parkinson's disease symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Confusion and agitation in a patient with Parkinson's disease who is receiving medication to alleviate symptoms may be indicative of an adverse drug reaction or delirium. It is important to assess for other possible causes, such as infection or dehydration, but an adverse drug reaction should be considered first. Delirium and dementia are possible causes, but adverse drug reactions should be ruled out before considering other diagnoses. Worsening of dementia may also be a possibility, but without further assessment, it is premature to assume that this is the cause of Mr. Perrault's symptoms.

Question 8

An older adult who has an albumin level of 25 g/L takes aspirin and phenytoin (Dilantin) by mouth daily. Which adverse effect of these medications does the nurse expect because of the older adult's nutritional status?

Accepted Answer

The answer of An older adult who has an albumin...

Question 9

The nurse provides instruction about medication safety to older adults. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?

Accepted Answer

Older adults often take multiple medications, so it is important for them to understand the purpose of each medication to avoid any potential adverse effects. Options A, B, and D are all incorrect since nausea and vomiting are not always harmless side effects, medications should not be kept at bedside for convenience, and taking medications on an empty stomach with water may not be appropriate for all medications.

Quiz 14: Safe Medication Use for Older Adults