Principles Of Pharmacology

Question 1

Parts of medication orders

Answer 1

Patients name
Date and time the order is written
Name of drug to be administered
Dosage of drug 
Route by which drug is to be given
Frequency of administration
Signature of person writing order

Question 2

Checking Med Orders

Answer 2

Mar holds complete list of meds prescribed to patient

Check med orders were transcribed into Pyxis order medication system correctly

Question 3

What should you question in a medication order?

Answer 3

Do the patient’s condition and symptoms require this medication?
Does order make sense to give?
Is it in the correct dose and route?
Ask patient if they have any allergies or adverse reactions? If yes, don’t give!
Does the med interact with other meds of the patient
Don’t give if you find reasons med can be harmful!!
Call MD to get confirmation or ask questions

Question 4

The rights to medication administration

Answer 4

1. The right medication is given to the
2. Right patient in the
3. Right dosage

Question 5

Ways to promote compliance among older adults

Answer 5

Give clear and exact instructions; verbally and written

Ensure dosage form is appropriate; liquids for those who can’t swallow

Provide clearly marked containers that are easy to open

Help client set up daily schedule and pull container

Discuss the availability of and access to local resources getting medications and paying for them

Tell client to ask for help whenever needed

Question 6

Changes in older age adults that affect pharmacokinetics

Answer 6

Increased gastric pH (alkaline)

Decreased gastrointestinal motility and gastric emptying —> slowed absorption rate

Decreased blood flow through cardiovascular system, liver, and kidneys

Decreased hepatic enzyme function

Decreased kidney function and glomerular filtration rate

Decreased protein binding sites, resulting in lower albumin levels

Decreased body fat and mass

Question 7

Non pharmacokinetics factors affecting medication therapy

Answer 7

Impaired memory or altered mental state
Multiple or severe illnesses
Changes in vision and hearing
Decreased mobility and dexterity 
Poor adherence/ compliance 
Little financial resources 
Polypharmacy