Answer :
Final answer:
For elderly patients, the nurse should begin with a low dosage of analgesics and adjust the amount based on response and side effects. It's important to monitor these patients for potential toxicity, especially those with liver or kidney dysfunction. The goal is to provide pain relief without significant adverse effects.
Explanation:
When administering analgesics to elderly patients, it is important to consider a few essential factors. The nurse needs to understand that the best option is to start with a low dosage, and increase the dosage as needed for pain relief. The goal is to achieve optimum therapeutic drug levels without causing significant toxicity or side effects. Analgesics and narcotics in higher doses can cause adverse effects such as drowsiness and loss of consciousness, particularly in elderly patients who may have slower metabolism and elimination rates. Moreover, patients with a history of liver or kidney dysfunction may experience reduced drug metabolism, leading to increased drug levels and potential toxicity.
Therefore, the dosage and route of administration require careful consideration, with adjustments made based on the patient's response and side effects. It's crucial to monitor these patients regularly to adapt treatment as necessary and ensure their safety and comfort.
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