Question

Which patients are at increased risk for adverse drug events? Select all that apply.

1) A 2-month-old infant taking a medication for gastroesophageal reflux disease
2) A 23-year-old female taking an antibiotic for the first time
3) A 40-year-old male who is intubated in the intensive care unit and taking antibiotics and cardiac medications
4) A 7-year-old female receiving insulin for diabetes
5) An 80-year-old male taking medications for COPD

Answer 1

Patients at increased risk for adverse drug events often include the very young, the elderly, and those with compromised health, particularly when dealing with complex medication regimens or when there are underlying physiological changes that affect drug metabolism.

Step-by-step explanation:

Patients at increased risk for adverse drug events include those who are physiologically vulnerable, such as the very young, the elderly, and individuals with compromised health or on multiple medications. Specifically:

• A 2-month-old infant taking a medication for gastroesophageal reflux disease is at increased risk due to their developing organs and the potential for dosing challenges.
• A 40-year-old male who is intubated in the intensive care unit and taking antibiotics and cardiac medications is at risk due to critical illness, potential drug interactions, and the complexity of care involved.
• An 80-year-old male taking medications for COPD is at increased risk due to age-related changes in drug metabolism, the likelihood of polypharmacy, and the potential presence of multiple chronic conditions.

The other individuals listed (the 23-year-old female taking an antibiotic for the first time and the 7-year-old female receiving insulin for diabetes) may also experience adverse drug events but are not automatically at increased risk solely based on the information provided.