Which components of pharmacokinetics does the nurse need to understand before administering a drug? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because drugs with a smaller volume of distribution tend to stay in the bloodstream longer, leading to a longer half-life. This is important for determining dosing intervals. Option B is incorrect because oral drugs are usually absorbed through passive diffusion or active transport, not pinocytosis. Option C is incorrect because patients with kidney disease may actually have more protein-binding sites, leading to potential drug accumulation. Option D is incorrect because rapid absorption typically increases the bioavailability of the drug, not decreases it.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: It remains the same. Hepatic enzyme inducers can increase the metabolism of warfarin, leading to decreased levels. However, the dose adjustment is usually not necessary because the international normalized ratio (INR) can be monitored and the warfarin dose can be adjusted accordingly to maintain therapeutic levels. Increasing or decreasing the dose preemptively without INR monitoring can lead to adverse effects. Choice A is incorrect because increasing the dose can lead to over-anticoagulation. Choice B is incorrect as decreasing the dose can result in under-anticoagulation. Choice D is incorrect as the effect of hepatic enzyme inducers on warfarin metabolism is predictable, but the dose adjustment is based on INR monitoring.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Clopidogrel is an inhibitor of platelet aggregation, specifically an antiplatelet agent. It works by inhibiting the activation of platelets, preventing blood clot formation. This is important in conditions like heart attacks and strokes. A: Low-molecular-weight heparin is an anticoagulant, not an antiplatelet agent. B: Vitamin K antagonists like warfarin are anticoagulants, not antiplatelet agents. C: Direct thrombin inhibitors like dabigatran are anticoagulants, not antiplatelet agents. In summary, the correct answer is D because clopidogrel is an inhibitor of platelet aggregation, which distinguishes it from the other choices that are anticoagulants.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Helps increase blood flow to the extremities. This claim is appropriate because herbal products can indeed have vasodilatory effects that promote better blood circulation, potentially benefiting extremities. Choices A, C, and D make absolute claims that cannot be substantiated or guaranteed, making them inappropriate for labeling herbal products. Choice A oversimplifies the potential benefits and risks associated with diabetes prevention. Choice C falsely claims a cure for a complex and incurable condition like Alzheimer's disease. Choice D wrongly generalizes the safety of herbal products, as individual reactions can vary.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assess the child’s developmental age. It is important to consider the child's developmental age to tailor the teaching approach to their level of understanding and communication abilities. This ensures that the child comprehends the information provided and can follow medication instructions. Assessing for side effects experienced by adults (B) may not be relevant as children may have different reactions. Considering the actions and uses of the drug (C) is important but not specific to ensuring patient safety. Focusing on the child’s chronological age (D) may not account for their developmental delays and specific needs.