Administering Medication Practice Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

When administering medications to elderly patients, it is crucial to consider age-related pharmacokinetic changes. As individuals age, their bodies undergo various physiological changes that can affect how medications are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted.

For instance, older adults often have diminished renal function, which can lead to decreased clearance of medications that are primarily eliminated by the kidneys. Additionally, changes in liver function can affect the metabolism of drugs, potentially leading to increased sensitivity to medications and a higher risk of adverse effects.

Understanding these changes helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about dosage modifications, the selection of medications, and monitoring for side effects. This knowledge is vital in ensuring safe and effective medication management in elderly patients, as they may respond differently to the same medications compared to younger adults.