Older person - medication use p.428 Flashcards
1
Q
Why are older adults at risk for adverse medication reactions?
A
- Age-related changes in drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion
- Medications may interact and augment or negate effects
- Medications can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, constipation, incontinence
2
Q
What factors contribute to older adults taking multiple medications?
A
- Having more than one chronic health problem
- Combining prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, natural remedies
- Multiple medications needed for acute and chronic conditions
3
Q
What are risks of taking multiple medications in older adults?
A
- Combinations can cancel benefits of any/all medications
- Increases risk for adverse reactions like memory loss, sleepiness, agitation, confusion
- Associated with falls and other injuries
4
Q
What medications are most commonly used by older adults?
A
- Cardiovascular drugs
- Antihypertensives
- Analgesics
- Sedatives
- Tranquilizers
- Laxatives
- Antacids
5
Q
What is polypharmacy?
A
- Concurrent use of many medications
- Increases risk for adverse reactions
- May reflect inappropriate prescribing
6
Q
What is the nurse’s role regarding medications for older adults?
A
- Ensure medications achieve greatest therapeutic benefit with least harm
- Periodic, thorough review of all medications
- Help older adults use fewest necessary medications
7
Q
Why may some older adults not take medications as prescribed?
A
- Unwilling due to medication effects like confusion, dizziness, nausea
- Do not adhere to dosing schedule
8
Q
Why is managing medications important for older adults?
A
- Vital for maintaining and promoting good health in old age
- Can be overwhelming for those taking many medications
- Nurses can provide valuable assistance
9
Q
How should nurses collaborate with older adults on medication use?
A
- Teach names of all drugs, when/how to take them, effects
- Teach avoiding adverse effects and interactions
- Teach establishing appropriate self-administration pattern
10
Q
What should nurses do to reduce medication reaction risk?
A
- Review medications at each visit
- Examine for potential food/drug interactions
- Simplify and individualize drug regimen
- Inform patient/family about all aspects of use
- Encourage questioning physician/nurse/pharmacist
11
Q
What precautions are needed with sedatives/tranquilizers for confusion?
A
- May cause or exacerbate confusion
- Carefully administer due to age-related body system changes
- Treat underlying physiological cause like infection
12
Q
What non-pharmacological measures help confusion related to time/environment?
A
- Provide familiar environment and adequate light
- Encourage using assistive devices like glasses/hearing aids
- Encourage calls to friends/family for reassuring voices
