What risk may an older adult face when prescribed losartan in a long-term care facility?

When an older adult is prescribed losartan, a medication used primarily to manage hypertension and heart failure, one significant risk they may face is an increased likelihood of falls. This risk is primarily associated with the potential for losartan to cause orthostatic hypotension, a condition where blood pressure drops significantly when a person stands up from sitting or lying down. This can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness, increasing the risk of falls, particularly in the elderly, who may already have balance issues or other comorbidities that further heighten this risk.

In the context of long-term care facilities where older adults often have multiple medications that could compound effects on blood pressure, the need for careful monitoring and management becomes even more crucial. Fall-related injuries in this population can have serious consequences, including prolonged hospitalizations and decreased mobility. Thus, understanding the implications of prescribing losartan, especially considering the increased sensitivity of older adults to blood pressure medications, is vital for ensuring their safety and well-being.