PSA Prescribing in Special Populations

Question 1

Why do elderly patients require special prescribing considerations?

Accepted Answer

Altered pharmacokinetics (reduced kidney/liver function, body composition changes) and increased sensitivity to many drugs

Answer

Elderly patients metabolize drugs faster

Answer

No special considerations are needed

Answer

Only psychological factors matter

Question 2

What is the principle of 'start low, go slow' in elderly prescribing?

Accepted Answer

Begin with the lowest effective dose and increase gradually to minimize adverse effects

Answer

Always use the maximum dose

Answer

Start with a loading dose

Answer

Change medications frequently

Question 3

What prescribing risks exist during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Drugs may cross the placenta and cause teratogenic effects on the developing fetus

Answer

All drugs are safe during pregnancy

Answer

Only intravenous drugs pose risks

Answer

Risk only exists in the third trimester

Question 4

Why is prescribing in children different from adults?

Accepted Answer

Children have different body composition, metabolism rates, and organ maturity affecting drug handling

Answer

Children are just small adults

Answer

The same doses work for all ages

Answer

Only the route of administration changes

Question 5

What considerations apply to prescribing in renal impairment?

Accepted Answer

Drug accumulation risk requires dose reduction or interval extension for renally-eliminated drugs

Answer

All drugs are safe in renal impairment

Answer

Only kidney drugs need adjustment

Answer

Renal impairment does not affect drug levels

Question 6

What is polypharmacy and why is it a concern?

Accepted Answer

The use of multiple medications, increasing the risk of drug interactions, adverse effects, and non-adherence

Answer

Taking vitamins with medications

Answer

Using more than one pharmacy

Answer

Prescribing one drug for multiple conditions