Gerontological Nurse Test Pharmacology in Older Adults

Question 1

Which pharmacokinetic change is most common in older adults that affects drug clearance?

Accepted Answer

Decreased hepatic blood flow and renal function

Answer

Aging reduces hepatic blood flow and glomerular filtration rate, leading to decreased drug clearance and increased risk of toxicity.

Question 2

The Beers Criteria is a clinical tool used specifically to:

Accepted Answer

Identify potentially inappropriate medications for adults aged 65 and older

Answer

The Beers Criteria, maintained by the American Geriatrics Society, lists medications considered potentially inappropriate for older adults due to higher risk of adverse effects.

Question 3

An 80-year-old patient is prescribed a new medication. Which age-related change most significantly increases the risk of drug accumulation?

Accepted Answer

Decreased creatinine clearance

Answer

Decreased creatinine clearance in older adults slows renal excretion of drugs and their metabolites, leading to accumulation and potential toxicity.

Question 4

Which medication class listed in the Beers Criteria is most associated with causing falls in older adults?

Accepted Answer

Benzodiazepines

Answer

Benzodiazepines cause sedation, cognitive impairment, and impaired balance in older adults, significantly increasing fall risk.

Question 5

A gerontological nurse is reviewing an older adult's medications and notes decreased serum albumin. What is the primary clinical concern?

Accepted Answer

Increased free (unbound) drug concentration leading to toxicity

Answer

Low serum albumin means fewer protein-binding sites, so more free drug circulates in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of adverse effects and toxicity.

Gerontological Nurse Test Practice Test

Gerontological Nurse Test Practice Test

Gerontological Nurse Test Pharmacology in Older Adults