Author Question: Which patients are at increased risk for adverse drug events? (Select all that apply.) a. A ... (Read 109 times)

Mollykgkg · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

Which patients are at increased risk for adverse drug events? (Select all that apply.)

a. A 2-month-old infant taking a medication for gastroesophageal reflux disease
b. A 23-year-old female taking an antibiotic for the first time
c. A 40-year-old male who is intubated in the intensive care unit and taking antibio-tics and cardiac medications
d. A 7-year-old female receiving insulin for diabetes
e. An 80-year-old male taking medications for COPD

Question 2

A nursing student asks why albuterol, which is selective for beta2 receptors, causes an increased heart rate in some patients. How should the nurse respond?

a. Adrenergic agonists can lose their selec-tivity when given at higher doses.
b. Bronchodilation lowers blood pressure, which causes a reflex tachycardia.
c. Some patients metabolize the drug diffe-rently and have unusual side effects.
d. Systemic effects are intensified with in-haled doses.

mfedorka · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A, C, E
Patients at increased risk for adverse drug events include the very young, the very old, and those who have serious illnesses. Females, children, and young adults taking single medications do not have increased risks for adverse events.

Answer to Question 2

A
Although albuterol affects the beta2 receptors, at higher doses it may also activate beta1 receptors, causing an increase in the heart rate. Bronchodilation does not lower the blood pressure, and ac-tivation of beta1 receptors actually may increase it. Tachycardia is a common side effect. The inhaled route reduces the likelihood of systemic side effects.