What physiological alteration associated with pregnancy may change a client's response to medication?

During pregnancy, several physiological changes occur that can significantly impact the pharmacokinetics of medications. One key alteration is the change in gastrointestinal (GI) motility. Specifically, pregnant individuals often experience a longer gastrointestinal emptying time, which can influence how medications are absorbed. When the GI tract operates more slowly, medications may stay in the stomach and intestines longer, potentially leading to increased absorption and altered peak concentrations in the bloodstream.

The effect of longer GI emptying time is particularly important for medications that rely on a prompt absorption to be effective, as delays can modify the expected therapeutic effects. Thus, understanding how a pregnant client's metabolism of drugs can be different due to extended GI transit time is crucial for ensuring safe and effective medication management during pregnancy.

On the other hand, while changes in blood volume, metabolic rate, and kidney function are indeed notable during pregnancy, the specific alteration that directly affects medication response in terms of GI absorption is the longer gastrointestinal emptying time.