Geriatrics Quiz

Question 1

T or F: Elderly patients have decreased total body water, decreased lean body mass, increased body fat, decreased serum albumin levels, and altered protein binding, decreased hepatic perfusion and phase I metabolism, reduced renal plasma flow, reduced glomerular filtration rate, decreased tubular secretion function, and various alterations in determinants of tissue sensitivity. However, the effects on renal clearance are more consistent than the other pharmacokinetic drugs.

Answer 1

T

Question 2

Recommended dosage adjustments to compensate for reduced renal function can be found in the approved labeling (package insert); and in Drug Databases such as Clinical Pharmacology. Most dose adjustments are based on an estimate of creatinine clearance determined by:

A) The Cockcroft and Gault Equation
B) Urine collection
C) The modification of diet in renal disease formula
D) None of the above

Answer 2

A

Question 3

Polypharmacy is defined as:

A) Use of more than 6 different medications
B) Use of more medications than are clinically indicated, or when a medical regimen includes at least one unnecessary medication
C) When a patient uses more than 3 pharmacies to fill their prescriptions
D) When students are taught by more than 4 different pharmacology faculty

Answer 3

B

Question 4

In the FORTA approach (drug classification - fit for the aged), a class A medication:

A) Does not require an insurance copayment
B) Does not have a generic equivalent product
C) Provides a clear cut benefit for efficacy; and has proven safety in the elderly for a given indication
D) Are safe and efficacious only in adults < 65 years of age

Answer 4

C