HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

Which of the following is an important guideline for medication administration in elderly patients?

1. Increase dosages gradually

2. Administer medications at bedtime only

3. Consider age-related organ function changes

4. Mix medications with food to mask taste

The correct answer is: Consider age-related organ function changes

Considering age-related organ function changes is crucial when administering medications to elderly patients because their physiological changes can significantly affect drug metabolism, efficacy, and safety. As individuals age, there can be a decline in kidney and liver function, alterations in body composition, and changes in gastrointestinal absorption. These factors can lead to variations in how a drug is processed, necessitating careful adjustment of dosages and monitoring for side effects, as well as ensuring that medications are appropriate for the individual's current health status. Gradual dosage increases may also be beneficial in some cases, but the fundamental understanding of how organ function shifts in the elderly informs the entire approach to medication management. Administering medications strictly at bedtime is not universally applicable and could ignore specific medication guidelines or patient-centered considerations, while mixing medications with food may not always be safe or effective, depending on the medication's properties. Recognizing the implications of age-related changes is essential for safe and effective medication administration.