Pharmacology and the Nursing Process: Lifespan Considerations

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to pharmacology and lifespan considerations in nursing.

Pharmacokinetics

The study of how drugs move through the body, involving absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

Adverse effects

Unintended or harmful effects resulting from drug therapy.

Polypharmacy

The concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient, which increases the risk of drug interactions.

FDA pregnancy categories

A classification system that categorizes drugs based on their safety for use during pregnancy.

Neonate

An infant within the first month of life.

Breastfeeding risks

The potential transfer of drugs consumed by the mother into breast milk, exposing the nursing infant.

Body Surface Area (BSA)

A calculation method used to determine drug dosages based on a patient's height and weight.

Geriatric considerations

Special considerations in drug therapy for older adult patients due to changes in organ function and increased sensitivity to medications.

Lifespan approach

A perspective that takes into account the unique pharmacological needs of patients at different stages of life.

Maternal factors

Conditions related to the mother that can influence fetal drug exposure and metabolism.

Cautions and contraindications

Guidelines that identify when a drug should be used with caution or not at all.

Drug absorption

The process by which a drug enters the bloodstream.

Drug metabolism

The chemical alteration of a drug by the body, primarily through the liver.