Drug therapy in elderly patients: diagnosis of drug-related problems.

Given the multiple diseases and vulnerability of the elderly to develop adverse drug effects, it is incumbent on the nurse to monitor and critically evaluate the patient's conditions. Attempts must be made to further develop and/or refine existing systematic process to delineate and prevent drug-related health problems. Non-drug form of treatment or use of the fewest possible medications (three or less) must always be considered. The wide variation from one elderly individual to another requires careful individualized monitoring of drug effects on an ongoing basis. Knowledge of geropharmacology and continuous study of new drugs and their effects are essential to recognize actual and potential drug-related problems and promote the health, and safety of elderly individuals.