Final answer:
The correct statement about drug doses based on a patient's body surface area (BSA) is that they are directly proportional to BSA. When determining drug dosage, factors such as BSA, age, organ function, condition severity, and past drug responses are vital. Hence, option C is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question about drug doses based on a patient's body surface area (BSA) is C. They are directly proportional to BSA. This means that as the body surface area increases, the dose of a drug is usually increased accordingly to achieve the desired plasma concentration and therapeutic effect. This dosing technique is often used in the administration of chemotherapeutic agents and ensures that patients receive a dose appropriate to their size.
When determining the dosage of a drug, it is important to consider factors such as:
- The patient's body weight and BSA
- The patient's age
- The presence of any kidney or liver impairment
- The severity and nature of the condition being treated
- Previous responses to the drug or similar drugs
Typical side effects associated with drugs can include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, or allergic reactions. Factors that might contribute to these side effects include:
- The drug dose and frequency of administration
- Drug-drug or drug-food interactions
- Individual variations in metabolism
- Underlying health conditions
- Age and gender of the patient