NCLEX Practice Test

Which intervention by the clinic nurse is most important for reducing the risk of drug interactions in an older adult client taking multiple medications?

1. Assist client with making a list of all medications, doses, and times to be taken

2. Encourage client to obtain all prescription medications from the same pharmacy

3. Have client bring all medications taken regularly or occasionally to each appointment

4. Instruct client to use a pill organizer to separate pills by day and time

The correct answer is: Assist client with making a list of all medications, doses, and times to be taken

Creating a comprehensive list of all medications, including doses and scheduled times for administration, is crucial for managing a complex medication regimen, especially in older adults who often take multiple medications. This intervention serves as a foundational tool for healthcare providers to assess potential drug interactions effectively. When the nurse assists the client in compiling an accurate medication list, it helps ensure that all healthcare providers are aware of the patient's complete medication profile. This awareness is essential for evaluating how different medications may interact with one another, which is particularly relevant in the geriatric population that may have varying degrees of organ function and increased vulnerability to adverse effects from drug interactions. In addition to documenting prescribed medications, a thorough list can include over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products the client might be using, further supporting the identification of possible interactions. Providing this detailed medication inventory enhances communication among the healthcare team and enables more informed decision-making about the client's care plan to mitigate risks associated with polypharmacy. Other options, while valuable in their own right, do not independently address the comprehensive overview of medications as thoroughly as making a complete list does. For example, obtaining all medications from the same pharmacy can help with monitoring but does not ensure a complete awareness of the client's regimen. Similarly, bringing medications