Which of the following statements explains why diphenhydramine ...

[eruditmonkey@yahoo.com]

Which of the following statements explains why diphenhydramine (Benadryl) should be used with extreme caution in clients with Alzheimer's disease?
 
  A) Diphenhydramine causes dizziness and can lead to falls.
  B) Diphenhydramine interferes with the acetylcholine available for neural transmission.
  C) Diphenhydramine can cause respiratory distress secondary to histamine release.
  D) Diphenhydramine can impede cerebral blood flow in susceptible people.

Question 2

Which of the following issues related to pharmacotherapy represents the greatest possible risk to an older client's health?
 
  A) Problems administering medications secondary to swallowing difficulties
  B) Older adults' decreased ability to metabolize and excrete medications
  C) Simultaneous prescription of multiple drugs
  D) Older adults' use of alternative remedies

[blfontai]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: A
Feedback:
One of the most common anticholinergic medications is diphenhydramine (Benadryl), available OTC and used for allergy reactions and as a sleep aid. Because of its side effects, many people who use diphenhydramine begin to feel dizzy and lightheaded, get a dry mouth, and sometimes become confused and disoriented. Older adults who already have confusion and disorientation secondary to Alzheimer's disease will be compromised significantly if they take anticholinergic drugs. In addition to decreased cognition and confusion, other anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, and blurred vision can predispose older clients to falls. Even if they do not have Alzheimer's disease, giving anticholinergics routinely to any older adult is dangerous.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: C
Feedback:
The term that describes the use of many drugs simultaneously in the same client is polypharmacy. Because the number of physical problems tends to increase with age, many clients have several different medical conditions that require treatment. Problems arise when no single physician oversees all the medications for compatibility and client adherence. When a client adds over-the-counter medications, medical repercussions can be severe.