An older client has had an instance of drug toxicity and asks why ...

[Lisaclaire]

An older client has had an instance of drug toxicity and asks why this happens, since the client has been on this medication for years at the same dose. What response by the nurse is best?
 
  a. Changes in your liver cause drugs to be metabolized differently.
  b. Perhaps you don't need as high a dose of the drug as before.
  c. Stomach muscles atrophy with age and you digest more slowly.
  d. Your body probably can't tolerate as much medication anymore.

Question 2

A client had a colonoscopy and biopsy yesterday and calls the gastrointestinal clinic to report a spot of bright red blood on the toilet paper today. What response by the nurse is best?
 
  a. Ask the client to call back if this happens again today.
  b. Instruct the client to go to the emergency department.
  c. Remind the client that a small amount of bleeding is possible.
  d. Tell the client to come in to the clinic this afternoon.

[nital]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Decreased liver enzyme activity depresses drug metabolism, which leads to accumulation of drugspossibly to toxic levels. The other options do not accurately explain this age-related change.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
After a colonoscopy with biopsy, a small amount of bleeding is normal. The nurse should remind the client of this and instruct him or her to go to the emergency department for large amounts of bleeding, severe pain, or dizziness.