A nurse initiates an acute care for elders unit in a medical facility. Which factor should the nurse include when teaching about delivering medications to older adults?

The focus on the increased risk of adverse medication effects in older adults is critically important for several reasons. As people age, there are physiological changes such as decreased liver and kidney function that can impact how medications are metabolized and cleared from the body. This can lead to a higher probability of side effects and adverse reactions, especially because older adults often take multiple medications, a situation known as polypharmacy.

Additionally, age-related changes in body composition, such as an increase in body fat and a decrease in total body water, can alter the distribution of drugs, potentially leading to higher concentrations in the bloodstream and an increased risk of toxicity. Cognitive and physical changes can also affect an older adult's ability to manage their medication regimens effectively, which further increases their vulnerability to adverse effects.

Given these factors, nurses must be particularly vigilant when administering medications to older adults, ensuring appropriate dosing, monitoring for side effects, and providing comprehensive education on medication management. This proactive approach is essential to minimize risks and enhance the safety and efficacy of medication therapy in this age group.