Physiological AdaptationQuestion 1735 of 2368
Why are smaller doses often recommended for older clients, using the guideline "start low and go slow"?
- Increased liver function speeds up drug breakdown and shortens the half-life of drugs
- Increased kidney function removes drugs too quickly and leaves the blood levels low
- Higher first-pass metabolism lowers free drug levels and reduces the drug's effect
- Decreased kidney and liver function can prolong half-life and raise the risk of toxicity
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Correct answer: Decreased kidney and liver function can prolong half-life and raise the risk of toxicity
Kidney and liver function often decrease with age. This reduces metabolism and excretion, so drug levels can become elevated.
Source: Nursing Pharmacology, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Pharmacokinetics & Pharmacodynamics: Older Adult. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Physiological Adaptation"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026