Pharm chapter 2

What is the characteristic action of an agonist?

Agonists bind to receptors and cause a physiologic effect

A client with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder has begun lithium therapy. What is the primary rationale for the nurse's instructions regarding the need for regular monitoring of the client's serum drug levels?

It is necessary to ensure that the client's drug levels are therapeutic but not toxic.

Which factor accounts for the increased risk for drug reactions among clients aged 65 years and older?

Physiologic changed affecting all pharmacokinetic processes

When considering the dosage requirement for a 6-feet (1.8-m) tall client who weighs 280 pounds (127kg), which statement is accurate?

The dose will be higher than that required of a client who weighs 180 pounds (82 kg)

A client is experiencing a cough associated with an upper respiratory infection. Which oral medication will likely produce the quickest therapeutic effect?

a liquid

A client is administered an oral contraceptive. What is the process that occurs between the time the drug enters the body and the time it enters the bloodstream?

absorption

Which site of drug absorption is considered to have the largest surface area?

lungs

What is the expected therapeutic outcome of the simultaneous administration of two medications?

the combined effects are greater than the effects of either one of the drugs alone.

Which phrase accurately describes the concept of a medication's serum half-life?

the time needed for the serum level to fall by 50%

An older adult client has an elevated serum creatinine level. This client is at greatest risk for which medication-related effect?

toxicity