If a pediatric dose is 10-15 mg/kg and a 5.5 kg infant is ordered 120 mg, what should the nurse do?

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Multiple Choice

If a pediatric dose is 10-15 mg/kg and a 5.5 kg infant is ordered 120 mg, what should the nurse do?

Explanation:
In pediatric dosing, you calculate the amount based on the child’s weight and compare it to the safe mg/kg range. For a 5.5 kg infant, the recommended per-dose range is 55 mg to 82.5 mg (10–15 mg/kg). An order for 120 mg exceeds that safe range, signaling a probable dosing error or miscommunication. The correct course is to discuss and verify the order with the physician (and, if needed, consult the pharmacist) to confirm the intended dose or concentration and adjust to a safe amount before administration. Until the order is clarified, do not administer the medication. This safeguards the child from potential overdose and ensures the dose aligns with weight-based safety standards.

In pediatric dosing, you calculate the amount based on the child’s weight and compare it to the safe mg/kg range. For a 5.5 kg infant, the recommended per-dose range is 55 mg to 82.5 mg (10–15 mg/kg). An order for 120 mg exceeds that safe range, signaling a probable dosing error or miscommunication. The correct course is to discuss and verify the order with the physician (and, if needed, consult the pharmacist) to confirm the intended dose or concentration and adjust to a safe amount before administration. Until the order is clarified, do not administer the medication. This safeguards the child from potential overdose and ensures the dose aligns with weight-based safety standards.

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