An older adult client has been prescribed warfarin (Coumadin), an anticoagulant, for heart valve damage due to rheumatic heart disease. What concerns does the nurse have with regard to metabolism of warfarin in older adult clients?
a. There is an increased risk for toxicity due to accumulation of the drug in the body.
b. There is an increased risk for rapid clearance of the drug in the body.
c. Older adults may require higher dosing to achieve the full therapeutic effect.
d. Older adults may not consume enough foods containing vitamin K to aid in the metabolism of this drug.
a. There is an increased risk for toxicity due to accumulation of the drug in the body.
FEEDBACK:
a. As we age, the ability of the liver to break down drugs declines and drugs remain in the body longer. There is an increased risk for toxicity due to accumulation of the drug in the body.
b. Repeated doses can lead to an accumulation of the drug in the body. .
c. Smaller doses may be needed to avoid potential toxicity. .
d. Foods that contain vitamin K may impair anticoagulation. .
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