Final answer:
Nurses should be vigilant when administering new medications to older clients, as side effects like nausea and vomiting may occur rapidly due to the changing pharmacodynamics in the elderly, potentially leading to dehydration and changes in vital signs.
Step-by-step explanation:
When administering a new medication to an older client, nurses are aware that nausea and vomiting may develop rapidly as they are common side effects experienced by older adults. As we age, our body's pharmacodynamics change. This includes alterations in drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, which often makes the elderly more susceptible to medication side effects and toxicity.
The older patient population is prone to experiences such as nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, which can lead to complications like possible dehydration and changes in blood pressure and heart rate. It's essential to monitor these symptoms closely because they can have a more significant impact on an older adult's health compared to younger individuals. Side effects from medications can be more pronounced due to factors like decreased renal function, polypharmacy, and comorbidities. Nausea and vomiting, specifically, can be a result of a heightened sensitivity to certain drugs and can persist beyond the initial period of 24-48 hours.