An NP is caring for a 70-year-old patient who reports having ...

[a0266361136]

An NP is caring for a 70-year-old patient who reports having seasonal allergies with severe rhinorrhea. Using the Beers criteria, which of the following medications should the NP recommend for this patient?
 
  a. Loratadine (Claritin)
  b. Hydroxyzine (Vistaril)
  c. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
  d. Chlorpheniramine maleate (Chlorphen 12)

Question 2

An NP learns that a 90-year-old patient is chronically constipated and has frequent problems with acid reflux. The NP notes a weight loss of 20 pounds in this patient in the previous 6 months.
 
  Which of the following drugs that this patient is taking is cause for concern? a. Quinidine
  b. Naproxen
  c. Calcium citrate
  d. Calcium channel blocker

[momtoalll]

Answer to Question 1

A
Loratadine is the only nonsedating antihistamine on this list. Older patients are especially susceptible to sedation side effects and should not use these medications if possible.

Answer to Question 2

B
Naproxen has a high binding affinity for protein, and these drugs can become toxic in patients who may have low serum albumin because of the amount of free drug in serum. Constipation and acid reflux may cause problems with absorption for some drugs, but not the drugs listed.

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