Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

How can the rate of absorption of drugs be affected in elderly clients?

1. Age of the client

2. Type of capsule or coating on the pill

3. Frequency of medication intake

4. Dietary habits

The correct answer is: Type of capsule or coating on the pill

The rate of absorption of drugs in elderly clients can indeed be significantly influenced by the type of capsule or coating on the pill. In older adults, various physiological changes, such as altered gastric pH, delayed gastric emptying, and changes in gastrointestinal motility, can affect how drugs are absorbed in the body. Certain formulations, such as enteric-coated tablets, are designed to dissolve in specific parts of the gastrointestinal tract. If a drug is released too early or too late due to variations in digestive processes that may be more pronounced in elderly clients, this can impact the overall absorption rate and bioavailability of the drug. For instance, a capsule designed for slow release may not function as intended if it dissolves prematurely in an altered gastric environment typical of older adults. Furthermore, factors such as the presence of food in the stomach, which can affect when and how drugs dissolve and are absorbed, also tie back to the formulation itself. This is particularly relevant since many elderly individuals may take medications concurrently with meals, which can influence how well these medications are absorbed based on their specific coating or formulation. Thus, understanding the type of capsule or coating on a medication is crucial for optimizing therapeutic outcomes in elderly clients.