What condition is characterized by an increased risk of drug toxicity in elderly clients?

The condition characterized by an increased risk of drug toxicity in elderly clients is declining hepatic and renal functioning. As individuals age, the liver and kidneys often become less efficient at metabolizing and excreting medications.

This decline leads to reduced clearance of drugs from the body, meaning that medications can accumulate to potentially toxic levels. The liver is responsible for breaking down many drugs, while the kidneys filter and excrete them. When either of these systems is compromised, it can result in increased drug concentrations in the bloodstream, heightened effects, or adverse drug reactions.

Elderly clients are particularly vulnerable because they often take multiple medications, a phenomenon known as polypharmacy, which can further complicate metabolism and excretion. Therefore, healthcare providers must carefully assess organ function and adjust medication dosages appropriately to prevent drug toxicity in older adults.