T2: Safe Med Use (CH 17) Flashcards
There is an increased risk of interactions and __ __ in older adults when it comes to medications.
adverse reactions
Medications act ___ in older adults; and require careful dosage adjustment and __.
differently
monitoring
___: refers to the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of drugs
Pharmacokinetics
___: refers to the biologic and therapeutic effects of drugs at the site of action or on the target organ
Pharmacodynamics
The high prevalence of health conditions in the older population causes this group to use a large number and variety of ___
medications
Most common medications used:
cardiovascular agents, antihypertensive, analgesics, antiarthritic agents, sedatives, tranquilizers, laxatives, and antacids
Taking more than one drug increases the risk of __ interactions.
drug-food
Pharmacokinetics refers to the __, __, __, and ___ of drugs.
absorption
distribution
metabolism
excretion
The renal system is primarily responsible for the body’s ___ functions, and among its activities is the __ of drugs.
excretory
excretion
Changes in what 4 things can modify DISTRIBUTION of a drug?
- circulation
- membrane permeability
- body temperature
- tissue structure
Factors altering absorption:
- Route of administration
- Concentration and solubility of drug
- Diseases and symptoms
Difficult to predict drug __
distribution
___ and hypoalbuminemia decrease drug distribution
Dehydration
CONDITIONS decreasing metabolism of drugs: (4)
-Dehydration, hyperthermia, immobility, and liver disease
___ is the most common organ to deal with metabolism.
Liver
Extended biological __: requires close evaluation of drug clearance
half-life
Detoxification and conjugation of drugs is ___
reduced
__ influences drug detoxification and excretion
Liver
Refers to biologic and therapeutic effects of drugs at the site of action or targeted organs
Altered Pharmacodynamics
There is increased myocardial sensitivity to ___.
anesthesia
There is increase central nervous system receptor sensitivity to __, alcohol, and __.
narcotics
bromides
Risk of adverse drug reactions is higher in older adults related to altered __ and __.
pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
Mental ___ is often an early sign of adverse reaction to many medications.
dysfunction
This criteria included drugs that were inappropriate to use in general and drugs that were inappropriate to use in the presence of specific conditions. (Identification of drugs that carry high risks for older adults)
Beer’s criteria
Ensure drugs are selectively and __ used.
cautiously
Suppository form: due to lower body temperature may take __ to melt
longer
Immobile limb will reduce rate of __.
absorption
What are some factors interference with safe administration?
- Functional limitations
- Cognitive limitations
- Educational limitations
- Sensory limitations
- Financial limitations
- Choice
Theirs a therapeutic range- if their level is high (“toxic”) you ____
won’t give them it, you would hold off on that medication.
Benefits versus risk must be weighed meaning ____ .
more good than harm
__: gastrointestinal bleeding
Aspirin
__: Lacks anti-inflammatory properties; potential for hepatic necrosis
Acetaminophen
Can cause liver failure
Acetaminophen
Max dose of acetaminophen is __ in a day.
4G (4000mg)
__-Acting opioids: mild to moderate pain
Short
__-acting opioids: severe pain
Long
Assess the symptom of pain carefully for its ___ cause.
underlying
Observe for signs of infection other than fever in patients who are taking __ or ___.
aspirin or acetaminophen (an NSAID)
Administer analgesics regularly to maintain a constant __ level.
blood
Note signs of salicylate toxicity, which include:
dizziness, vomiting, tinnitus, hearing loss, sweating, fever, confusion, burning in the mouth and throat, convulsion, and coma.