Objective: The objective of this problem-based learning activity is to enhance nursing students’ understanding of geropharmacology by engaging them in a problem-solving scenario. Students will apply their knowledge of pharmacology and geriatric care to analyze medication-related issues in older adults and develop strategies to optimize medication safety and effectiveness.

Problem Scenario: You are a nurse working in a geriatric care setting. Several residents have experienced adverse drug events, medication interactions, and medication non-adherence. The healthcare team suspects that inappropriate prescribing, polypharmacy, and age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics may be contributing factors. Your task is to identify and address medication-related issues in the geriatric population to promote safe and effective medication use.

Instructions:

1. Individually or in small groups, review the principles of geropharmacology, including age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, medication adherence challenges, and the Beers Criteria for potentially inappropriate medication use in older adults.
2. Analyze the provided scenario and identify common medication-related issues faced by older adults, such as polypharmacy, adverse drug reactions, medication interactions, and medication non-adherence.
3. Select two specific medication-related issues identified in the scenario and explain their impact on older adults’ health and well-being.
4. Develop a comprehensive plan to address the chosen medication-related issues, considering the following aspects: a. Medication reconciliation: Describe strategies for accurate medication reconciliation to prevent medication errors and improve medication management. b. Medication review: Propose methods for conducting a thorough medication review, including assessing appropriateness, potential interactions, and side effects. c. Patient education: Outline approaches for educating older adults and their caregivers about medication use, potential side effects, and adherence strategies. d. Collaborative care: Describe the roles and responsibilities of the interdisciplinary team members (e.g., physicians, pharmacists, nurses) in optimizing medication use for older adults.
5. Present your plan to the class, explaining the rationale behind your chosen strategies and the expected outcomes.
6. Engage in a class discussion, comparing and contrasting different approaches, discussing challenges in geropharmacology, and sharing insights on best practices in medication management for older adults.

Grading Rubric:

Criteria Points

Understanding of geropharmacology /20 Identification of medication-related issues /15 Comprehensive plan to address issues /35

• Medication reconciliation /10
• Medication review /10
• Patient education /10
• Collaborative care /5 Presentation of the plan /15 Critical thinking and analysis /10 Class participation and engagement /15

Total /100

Note: The grading rubric should be adapted based on the specific requirements and expectations of the nursing program. The point distribution and criteria can be modified to align with the learning objectives and outcomes established by the course instructor or institution.