What is an important consideration for medication administration in elderly clients?

In the context of medication administration for elderly clients, increased sensitivity to medications is a critical consideration. As individuals age, physiological changes occur that can affect how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted by the body. These changes can result in a heightened sensitivity to both the therapeutic effects as well as side effects of medications.

Elderly patients may experience alterations in organ function, such as reduced kidney and liver function, which can impact drug clearance and lead to an increased propensity for adverse reactions. Consequently, this population often requires careful dosage adjustments and monitoring to avoid toxicity.

Understanding this increased sensitivity allows healthcare providers to tailor medication plans that prioritize safety and efficacy, ensuring that elderly clients receive the appropriate dosages that consider their unique physiological changes.