NCLEX Dosage Calculation Practice Exam Quiz

NCLEX Dosage Calculation Practice Exam Quiz

 

A provider orders 500 mL of IV fluid to be infused over 4 hours. The drop factor is 15 gtt/mL. How many drops per minute (gtt/min) should the nurse administer?

A) 31 gtt/min
B) 19 gtt/min
C) 25 gtt/min
D) 42 gtt/min

A patient needs 2.5 mg of a medication. The medication is available in 5 mg/2 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 0.5 mL
B) 1 mL
C) 1.5 mL
D) 2 mL

A child weighs 15 kg and requires acetaminophen 15 mg/kg per dose. How much acetaminophen should the child receive per dose?

A) 100 mg
B) 225 mg
C) 150 mg
D) 175 mg

A medication is ordered as 1 g. The nurse has 500 mg tablets available. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 1.5 tablets
C) 2 tablets
D) 0.5 tablets

The physician orders 0.4 mg of digoxin. The nurse has a vial labeled 100 mcg/mL. How many mL should the nurse draw?

A) 2 mL
B) 4 mL
C) 3 mL
D) 0.4 mL

A provider orders 120 mg of a medication. The vial reads 40 mg/mL. How many mL will the nurse give?

A) 2 mL
B) 3 mL
C) 4 mL
D) 5 mL

An IV is running at 75 mL/hr. How many hours will it take for 1,000 mL to infuse?

A) 12 hours
B) 13.3 hours
C) 14 hours
D) 10 hours

A nurse is preparing 0.25 mg of a medication. The stock solution is 1 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1.5 mL
B) 0.25 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 0.5 mL

A child weighing 12 kg is ordered amoxicillin 50 mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses. How many mg per dose should the nurse administer?

A) 200 mg
B) 300 mg
C) 400 mg
D) 500 mg

A patient is prescribed 8 units/kg/hr of heparin. The patient weighs 75 kg. What is the hourly dose?

A) 500 units/hr
B) 600 units/hr
C) 700 units/hr
D) 800 units/hr

The provider orders 1.5 g of a medication. The medication comes as 500 mg per tablet. How many tablets will the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 2 tablets
C) 3 tablets
D) 4 tablets

A nurse needs to administer 25 mL/hr of a medication via an infusion pump. How many mL will infuse over 12 hours?

A) 200 mL
B) 250 mL
C) 300 mL
D) 350 mL

A patient is prescribed 200 mcg of a medication. The stock solution is labeled 0.1 mg/mL. How many mL will the nurse draw up?

A) 1 mL
B) 2 mL
C) 0.5 mL
D) 0.2 mL

 

The order is for 750 mL of IV fluid to infuse over 5 hours. What is the flow rate in mL/hr?

A) 120 mL/hr
B) 150 mL/hr
C) 160 mL/hr
D) 125 mL/hr

A patient is prescribed 3,000 mL of IV fluids over 24 hours. What is the hourly rate in mL/hr?

A) 150 mL/hr
B) 100 mL/hr
C) 125 mL/hr
D) 200 mL/hr

A provider orders 650 mg of acetaminophen orally. The nurse has 325 mg tablets available. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 2 tablets
C) 3 tablets
D) 1.5 tablets

 

A pediatric patient is prescribed 0.2 mg/kg of a medication. The child weighs 18 kg. How many mg should the nurse administer?

A) 3.4 mg
B) 2.6 mg
C) 3.6 mg
D) 4.2 mg

A vial contains 40 mg/mL of a medication. The provider orders 60 mg. How many mL will the nurse draw?

A) 0.5 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 1 mL

The provider prescribes an infusion at 200 mL/hr for 4 hours. How many mL of fluid will be infused in total?

A) 400 mL
B) 600 mL
C) 800 mL
D) 1,200 mL

A nurse needs to administer 15 mg of a medication. The vial is labeled 30 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 0.25 mL
B) 0.5 mL
C) 1 mL
D) 2 mL

The patient is prescribed 75 mcg of levothyroxine. The pharmacy provides 50 mcg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 1.5 tablets
C) 2 tablets
D) 0.75 tablet

A provider orders 1,500 units of heparin. The vial is labeled 5,000 units/mL. How many mL will the nurse draw?

A) 0.3 mL
B) 0.5 mL
C) 1 mL
D) 0.25 mL

A patient weighs 88 lbs and is prescribed 0.8 mg/kg of a medication. How many mg will the nurse administer?

A) 20 mg
B) 28 mg
C) 32 mg
D) 35 mg

The order is for 2,500 mL of fluid to be infused over 12 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 250 mL/hr
B) 200 mL/hr
C) 300 mL/hr
D) 275 mL/hr

A medication is available as 1 g in 100 mL. The provider orders 750 mg. How many mL will the nurse administer?

A) 75 mL
B) 85 mL
C) 100 mL
D) 50 mL

A 22-lb child requires a medication dose of 5 mg/kg. What is the total dose in mg?

A) 50 mg
B) 55 mg
C) 60 mg
D) 70 mg

The nurse needs to give 125 mg of a medication. The available solution is 250 mg/5 mL. How many mL will the nurse administer?

A) 1.5 mL
B) 2.5 mL
C) 3 mL
D) 4 mL

A prescription requires 1.2 L of fluid over 24 hours. What is the flow rate in mL/hr?

A) 50 mL/hr
B) 75 mL/hr
C) 100 mL/hr
D) 125 mL/hr

A nurse administers a loading dose of 75 mg and needs to repeat it every 6 hours for 24 hours. How much medication will be administered in total?

A) 300 mg
B) 375 mg
C) 450 mg
D) 500 mg

A patient requires an infusion of 1,000 mL over 8 hours. The drop factor is 20 gtt/mL. What is the drip rate in gtt/min?

A) 40 gtt/min
B) 50 gtt/min
C) 42 gtt/min
D) 35 gtt/min

 

A provider orders 0.5 g of a medication. The available vial contains 250 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A nurse is to administer 8 mg of morphine IV. The vial is labeled 10 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse draw?

A) 0.6 mL
B) 0.8 mL
C) 1 mL
D) 1.2 mL

The provider orders 500 mL of fluid to be infused over 2 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 125 mL/hr
B) 200 mL/hr
C) 250 mL/hr
D) 300 mL/hr

A patient is prescribed 25 mg of promethazine. The pharmacy sends a vial labeled 50 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 0.25 mL
B) 0.5 mL
C) 1 mL
D) 1.5 mL

The provider prescribes an infusion of 1,800 mL over 12 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 100 mL/hr
B) 125 mL/hr
C) 150 mL/hr
D) 200 mL/hr

A pediatric patient is ordered 15 mg/kg of a medication. The child weighs 22 kg. How many mg should the nurse administer?

A) 250 mg
B) 300 mg
C) 330 mg
D) 375 mg

A nurse needs to administer 0.25 mg of digoxin. The vial is labeled 0.125 mg/mL. How many mL will the nurse draw?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

The provider orders 1,200 mL of fluid to be infused over 6 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 100 mL/hr
B) 150 mL/hr
C) 200 mL/hr
D) 250 mL/hr

The order is for 0.8 g of a medication. The pharmacy supplies 400 mg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 2 tablets
C) 3 tablets
D) 4 tablets

A patient is prescribed 1.5 L of IV fluid over 10 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 100 mL/hr
B) 125 mL/hr
C) 150 mL/hr
D) 175 mL/hr

A nurse needs to administer 18 units/kg of heparin to a patient weighing 70 kg. How many total units of heparin will the patient receive?

A) 1,000 units
B) 1,260 units
C) 1,500 units
D) 1,800 units

A vial is labeled 1,000 mg in 50 mL. The provider orders 500 mg. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 20 mL
B) 25 mL
C) 30 mL
D) 50 mL

A provider orders 3,000 mL of IV fluids over 24 hours. The drop factor is 15 gtt/mL. What is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 30 gtt/min
B) 31 gtt/min
C) 32 gtt/min
D) 33 gtt/min

A nurse is to administer 1 mg of lorazepam IV. The vial is labeled 2 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse draw?

A) 0.2 mL
B) 0.4 mL
C) 0.5 mL
D) 0.8 mL

A pediatric patient requires 2.5 mg/kg/day of a medication in 2 divided doses. The child weighs 30 kg. How much medication will the nurse administer per dose?

A) 25 mg
B) 30 mg
C) 37.5 mg
D) 40 mg

 

A patient is prescribed 0.2 g of a medication. The pharmacy provides tablets labeled 50 mg. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 2 tablets
B) 3 tablets
C) 4 tablets
D) 5 tablets

The provider orders 2,500 mL of IV fluid over 10 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 200 mL/hr
B) 250 mL/hr
C) 300 mL/hr
D) 350 mL/hr

A provider prescribes 8 mg of ondansetron IV. The vial contains 4 mg/2 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 2 mL
B) 3 mL
C) 4 mL
D) 5 mL

A nurse is preparing to administer 1.5 L of IV fluids over 8 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 150 mL/hr
B) 175 mL/hr
C) 187.5 mL/hr
D) 200 mL/hr

A patient requires 6,000 units of heparin SC. The pharmacy provides vials labeled 10,000 units/mL. How many mL should the nurse draw?

A) 0.3 mL
B) 0.4 mL
C) 0.5 mL
D) 0.6 mL

A provider orders ceftriaxone 750 mg IM. The vial contains 1 g/3.5 mL after reconstitution. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 2.0 mL
B) 2.5 mL
C) 3.0 mL
D) 3.5 mL

A patient is prescribed 5 mg/kg/day of a medication in 3 divided doses. The patient weighs 24 kg. How much medication will the nurse administer per dose?

A) 30 mg
B) 35 mg
C) 40 mg
D) 45 mg

The provider prescribes 250 mL of fluid to infuse over 2 hours. The drop factor is 20 gtt/mL. What is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 30 gtt/min
B) 35 gtt/min
C) 40 gtt/min
D) 45 gtt/min

A provider orders 600 mg of ibuprofen. The pharmacy provides a liquid suspension labeled 100 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 20 mL
B) 25 mL
C) 30 mL
D) 35 mL

A nurse needs to administer 15,000 units of a medication. The vial is labeled 20,000 units/mL. How many mL should the nurse draw?

A) 0.5 mL
B) 0.6 mL
C) 0.75 mL
D) 1 mL

A patient is prescribed 3 mg/kg of a medication every 12 hours. The patient weighs 50 kg. How much medication should the nurse administer per dose?

A) 125 mg
B) 130 mg
C) 140 mg
D) 150 mg

A provider orders 1,200 mL of IV fluid over 16 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 50 mL/hr
B) 60 mL/hr
C) 70 mL/hr
D) 75 mL/hr

A nurse needs to administer 0.75 g of an antibiotic. The pharmacy provides 500 mg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse give?

A) 1 tablet
B) 1.5 tablets
C) 2 tablets
D) 2.5 tablets

A patient is prescribed 100 mL/hr of IV fluids for 12 hours. What is the total volume the patient will receive?

A) 1,000 mL
B) 1,100 mL
C) 1,200 mL
D) 1,300 mL

A vial contains 2 mg/mL of lorazepam. The provider orders 6 mg. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 2 mL
B) 3 mL
C) 4 mL
D) 5 mL

 

A patient is prescribed 450 mg of acetaminophen. The pharmacy provides a liquid labeled 160 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 12.5 mL
B) 14 mL
C) 15 mL
D) 16 mL

The provider orders 1,800 mL of IV fluids over 24 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 70 mL/hr
B) 75 mL/hr
C) 80 mL/hr
D) 85 mL/hr

A provider orders 0.5 mg of digoxin IV. The vial contains 0.25 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A patient is to receive 2,000 mL of fluid over 10 hours using a drop factor of 15 gtt/mL. What is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 40 gtt/min
B) 45 gtt/min
C) 50 gtt/min
D) 55 gtt/min

A nurse is preparing to administer 0.75 g of an antibiotic. The vial contains 1.5 g/3 mL. How many mL should the nurse draw?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A provider prescribes 20 units/kg of heparin for a patient weighing 70 kg. How many units should the nurse administer?

A) 1,200 units
B) 1,300 units
C) 1,400 units
D) 1,500 units

A prescription calls for 1 L of D5W to be infused over 8 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 100 mL/hr
B) 120 mL/hr
C) 125 mL/hr
D) 150 mL/hr

A patient is prescribed 12 mg of a medication. The vial is labeled 8 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse draw?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A provider orders 500 mL of fluid to infuse over 4 hours using a drop factor of 20 gtt/mL. What is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 40 gtt/min
B) 42 gtt/min
C) 45 gtt/min
D) 50 gtt/min

A patient is prescribed 2.4 g of amoxicillin per day in 3 divided doses. How many mg will the patient receive per dose?

A) 600 mg
B) 700 mg
C) 800 mg
D) 900 mg

The provider orders 0.3 mg of epinephrine. The vial contains 1 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 0.2 mL
B) 0.3 mL
C) 0.4 mL
D) 0.5 mL

A nurse needs to administer 500 mL of saline over 5 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 50 mL/hr
B) 75 mL/hr
C) 100 mL/hr
D) 125 mL/hr

A patient is prescribed 7.5 mg of lorazepam. The vial contains 10 mg/2 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1.0 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 1.7 mL
D) 2.0 mL

A provider orders 1,000 mL of IV fluids over 12 hours. Using a drop factor of 15 gtt/mL, what is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 18 gtt/min
B) 20 gtt/min
C) 21 gtt/min
D) 22 gtt/min

A patient is prescribed 3 g of a medication. The pharmacy provides 1.5 g tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 1.5 tablets
C) 2 tablets
D) 2.5 tablets

 

A patient is prescribed 1.2 g of cefazolin. The vial contains 500 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 2 mL
B) 2.2 mL
C) 2.4 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A provider orders 250 mL of an IV antibiotic to be infused over 2 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 100 mL/hr
B) 120 mL/hr
C) 125 mL/hr
D) 150 mL/hr

A patient weighing 50 kg is prescribed enoxaparin 1 mg/kg. The syringe is prefilled with 60 mg/0.6 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 0.3 mL
B) 0.5 mL
C) 0.6 mL
D) 0.8 mL

The provider orders 3,600 mL of fluids to infuse over 24 hours using a drop factor of 20 gtt/mL. What is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 45 gtt/min
B) 50 gtt/min
C) 55 gtt/min
D) 60 gtt/min

A provider prescribes 2.5 mg of midazolam. The vial contains 5 mg/2 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 0.5 mL
B) 1 mL
C) 1.5 mL
D) 2 mL

A child weighing 18 kg is prescribed acetaminophen 15 mg/kg. The pharmacy provides 160 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 8 mL
B) 8.5 mL
C) 9 mL
D) 9.5 mL

A nurse is preparing to administer 400 mg of ibuprofen. The pharmacy provides 100 mg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse give?

A) 2 tablets
B) 3 tablets
C) 4 tablets
D) 5 tablets

A provider orders 1,000 mL of D5W to infuse at 125 mL/hr. How many hours will it take to complete the infusion?

A) 6 hours
B) 7 hours
C) 8 hours
D) 9 hours

A patient is to receive 300 mL of IV fluids over 3 hours using a drop factor of 10 gtt/mL. What is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 16 gtt/min
B) 17 gtt/min
C) 18 gtt/min
D) 19 gtt/min

A child weighing 22 kg is prescribed amoxicillin 20 mg/kg. The suspension is labeled 250 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 6 mL
B) 7 mL
C) 8 mL
D) 9 mL

A patient is prescribed 50 mg of a medication IV. The vial contains 25 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1 mL
B) 2 mL
C) 3 mL
D) 4 mL

A provider prescribes 2.5 g of vancomycin. The vial contains 1 g/10 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 20 mL
B) 25 mL
C) 30 mL
D) 35 mL

A patient is to receive 500 mL of saline over 6 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 80 mL/hr
B) 85 mL/hr
C) 90 mL/hr
D) 100 mL/hr

A child is prescribed 0.02 mg/kg of lorazepam IV. The child weighs 25 kg, and the vial contains 2 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 0.1 mL
B) 0.2 mL
C) 0.3 mL
D) 0.4 mL

A provider orders 1.5 L of lactated Ringer’s solution to infuse over 10 hours using a drop factor of 15 gtt/mL. What is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 37 gtt/min
B) 38 gtt/min
C) 39 gtt/min
D) 40 gtt/min

 

A patient is prescribed 1.8 g of a medication. The vial contains 600 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 2.5 mL
B) 3 mL
C) 3.2 mL
D) 3.5 mL

A patient is ordered 200 mL of IV fluids to infuse over 4 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 50 mL/hr
B) 55 mL/hr
C) 60 mL/hr
D) 65 mL/hr

A patient weighing 40 kg is prescribed gentamicin 2 mg/kg. The medication is available as 40 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1 mL
B) 2 mL
C) 3 mL
D) 4 mL

The provider orders 800 mL of 0.9% saline to be infused at 100 mL/hr. How many hours will it take to complete the infusion?

A) 6 hours
B) 7 hours
C) 8 hours
D) 9 hours

A provider prescribes 0.4 g of ceftriaxone. The vial contains 500 mg/2 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1.2 mL
B) 1.4 mL
C) 1.6 mL
D) 1.8 mL

A child weighing 12 kg is prescribed ibuprofen 10 mg/kg. The suspension is labeled 100 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 5 mL
B) 6 mL
C) 7 mL
D) 8 mL

A patient is prescribed 500 mg of a medication. The pharmacy provides tablets labeled 250 mg each. How many tablets should the nurse give?

A) 1 tablet
B) 2 tablets
C) 3 tablets
D) 4 tablets

The provider orders 1,500 mL of IV fluids to infuse over 12 hours using a drop factor of 15 gtt/mL. What is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 31 gtt/min
B) 32 gtt/min
C) 33 gtt/min
D) 34 gtt/min

A nurse is to administer 0.25 mg of digoxin. The vial contains 0.5 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 0.25 mL
B) 0.5 mL
C) 0.75 mL
D) 1 mL

A child weighing 15 kg is prescribed acetaminophen 15 mg/kg. The solution is labeled 160 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 5.5 mL
B) 6 mL
C) 6.5 mL
D) 7 mL

A patient is prescribed 125 mg of a medication. The vial contains 100 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1.2 mL
B) 1.25 mL
C) 1.3 mL
D) 1.4 mL

A patient is prescribed 2 g of a medication to be infused over 4 hours. The IV bag contains 2 g in 500 mL. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 100 mL/hr
B) 120 mL/hr
C) 125 mL/hr
D) 150 mL/hr

A provider orders 300 mL of fluids to infuse over 3 hours using a drop factor of 20 gtt/mL. What is the infusion rate in gtt/min?

A) 33 gtt/min
B) 34 gtt/min
C) 35 gtt/min
D) 36 gtt/min

A nurse needs to administer 40 mEq of potassium chloride. The vial contains 20 mEq/10 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 15 mL
B) 20 mL
C) 25 mL
D) 30 mL

A patient is ordered 250 mL of an IV antibiotic to infuse over 5 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 40 mL/hr
B) 45 mL/hr
C) 50 mL/hr
D) 55 mL/hr

 

A patient is prescribed 1,200 mg of amoxicillin. The suspension is labeled 250 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 20 mL
B) 22 mL
C) 24 mL
D) 26 mL

A nurse is to administer 1.5 L of IV fluids over 10 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 100 mL/hr
B) 125 mL/hr
C) 150 mL/hr
D) 175 mL/hr

A provider orders 0.3 g of a medication. The medication is available as 150 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1.5 mL
B) 1.8 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A child weighing 25 kg is prescribed 8 mg/kg of a medication. The solution is labeled 40 mg/2 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 5 mL
B) 6 mL
C) 7 mL
D) 8 mL

A nurse is to administer heparin at 12,000 units over 24 hours. The IV bag contains 25,000 units in 500 mL. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 200 mL/hr
B) 100 mL/hr
C) 125 mL/hr
D) 240 mL/hr

A patient is prescribed 50 mg of diphenhydramine. The vial contains 25 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A nurse needs to administer 3,000 mL of IV fluids over 24 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 120 mL/hr
B) 125 mL/hr
C) 130 mL/hr
D) 135 mL/hr

A child weighing 18 kg is prescribed 7 mg/kg of an antibiotic. The solution is labeled 70 mg/2 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 3.5 mL
B) 4 mL
C) 4.5 mL
D) 5 mL

A nurse is to administer 0.125 mg of digoxin. The tablet contains 0.25 mg. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 0.25 tablet
B) 0.5 tablet
C) 1 tablet
D) 1.5 tablets

A provider orders 15,000 units of penicillin. The vial contains 10,000 units/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A patient is prescribed 20 mEq of potassium chloride. The pharmacy provides 40 mEq/20 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 5 mL
B) 8 mL
C) 10 mL
D) 12 mL

A child weighing 10 kg is prescribed acetaminophen 15 mg/kg. The suspension is labeled 160 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 4 mL
B) 5 mL
C) 6 mL
D) 7 mL

A patient is prescribed 1,500 mL of IV fluids over 8 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 180 mL/hr
B) 185 mL/hr
C) 190 mL/hr
D) 200 mL/hr

A nurse is to administer 45 mg of a medication. The medication is available as 30 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1.25 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A patient is prescribed 1.2 g of a medication. The pharmacy provides it as 400 mg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 2 tablets
B) 3 tablets
C) 4 tablets
D) 5 tablets

 

A patient is prescribed 0.4 mg of clonidine. The medication is available as 200 mcg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 1.5 tablets
C) 2 tablets
D) 2.5 tablets

A provider orders 800 mL of IV fluids to infuse over 4 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 100 mL/hr
B) 150 mL/hr
C) 200 mL/hr
D) 250 mL/hr

A child weighing 16 kg is prescribed 5 mg/kg of medication. The vial contains 200 mg/4 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1.5 mL
B) 2 mL
C) 3 mL
D) 4 mL

A nurse is to administer 2.5 L of IV fluids over 12 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 200 mL/hr
B) 210 mL/hr
C) 220 mL/hr
D) 225 mL/hr

A patient is prescribed 650 mg of acetaminophen. The tablets available are 325 mg each. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 2 tablets
C) 2.5 tablets
D) 3 tablets

A nurse is preparing to administer 75 mg of a medication. The label reads 50 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse draw up?

A) 1.25 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 1.75 mL
D) 2 mL

A patient is prescribed 0.8 g of a medication. The pharmacy supplies 400 mg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 2 tablets
C) 3 tablets
D) 4 tablets

A provider orders 1,800 mL of IV fluids over 24 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 50 mL/hr
B) 75 mL/hr
C) 100 mL/hr
D) 125 mL/hr

A child weighing 20 kg is prescribed 10 mg/kg of a medication. The available solution is 100 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 8 mL
B) 10 mL
C) 15 mL
D) 20 mL

A nurse is to administer 50 mcg of a medication. The vial contains 100 mcg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 0.25 mL
B) 0.5 mL
C) 0.75 mL
D) 1 mL

A patient is prescribed 1.5 g of vancomycin. The IV bag contains 500 mg/100 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 200 mL
B) 250 mL
C) 300 mL
D) 350 mL

A child weighing 12 kg is prescribed 5 mg/kg of a medication. The solution is labeled 60 mg/3 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1.5 mL
B) 2.5 mL
C) 3 mL
D) 4 mL

A nurse is to administer 30 mEq of potassium chloride. The IV bag is labeled 40 mEq/100 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 50 mL
B) 60 mL
C) 70 mL
D) 75 mL

A patient is prescribed 2.5 mg of lorazepam. The vial contains 2 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.25 mL
C) 1.5 mL
D) 2 mL

A patient is prescribed 0.05 mg of a medication. The pharmacy supplies 50 mcg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 0.5 tablet
B) 1 tablet
C) 1.5 tablets
D) 2 tablets

 

A patient is prescribed 90 mg of a medication. The vial contains 30 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1.5 mL
B) 2 mL
C) 2.5 mL
D) 3 mL

A nurse is to administer 2 g of a medication. The solution available is 1 g/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 5 mL
B) 7.5 mL
C) 10 mL
D) 15 mL

A patient is prescribed 150 mcg of levothyroxine. The available tablets are 50 mcg each. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 2 tablets
B) 3 tablets
C) 4 tablets
D) 5 tablets

A provider orders 1,200 mL of IV fluids over 8 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 125 mL/hr
B) 150 mL/hr
C) 175 mL/hr
D) 200 mL/hr

A child weighing 25 kg is prescribed 10 mg/kg of a medication. The medication is available as 250 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 4 mL
B) 5 mL
C) 8 mL
D) 10 mL

A nurse is to administer 1.8 L of IV fluids over 24 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 50 mL/hr
B) 65 mL/hr
C) 75 mL/hr
D) 80 mL/hr

A patient is prescribed 0.6 g of a medication. The pharmacy provides it as 300 mg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 1 tablet
B) 2 tablets
C) 3 tablets
D) 4 tablets

A provider orders 40 mEq of potassium chloride to be added to 1 L of IV fluids to run at 100 mL/hr. How many hours will it take to complete the infusion?

A) 8 hours
B) 10 hours
C) 12 hours
D) 14 hours

A nurse is to administer 1.2 mg of a medication. The medication is available as 400 mcg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 2 tablets
B) 2.5 tablets
C) 3 tablets
D) 3.5 tablets

A patient is prescribed 50 mg of a medication. The vial contains 25 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL
Answer: C) 2 mL
(Calculation: 5025=2\frac{50}{25} = 22550​=2)

A nurse is to administer 900 mL of IV fluids over 9 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 50 mL/hr
B) 75 mL/hr
C) 100 mL/hr
D) 125 mL/hr

A child weighing 18 kg is prescribed 8 mg/kg of medication. The solution is labeled 100 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 4 mL
B) 5 mL
C) 6 mL
D) 7 mL

A patient is prescribed 120 mg of furosemide. The medication is available as 40 mg tablets. How many tablets should the nurse administer?

A) 2 tablets
B) 3 tablets
C) 4 tablets
D) 5 tablets

A nurse is to administer 15 mg of a medication. The vial contains 10 mg/mL. How many mL should the nurse administer?

A) 1 mL
B) 1.5 mL
C) 2 mL
D) 2.5 mL

A provider orders 2,000 mL of IV fluids to infuse over 16 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

A) 100 mL/hr
B) 125 mL/hr
C) 150 mL/hr
D) 200 mL/hr

 

Questions and Answers for Study Guide

 

Explain the importance of accurate dosage calculations in nursing practice and the potential consequences of errors. Provide an example of a scenario where an incorrect dosage calculation led to patient harm.

Answer:

Accurate dosage calculations are crucial in nursing to ensure patient safety, therapeutic effectiveness, and adherence to prescribed treatment plans. Errors in dosage can lead to adverse effects, toxicity, or therapeutic failure, potentially endangering a patient’s life. For instance, in pediatric patients, dosage calculations based on weight are critical because small errors can result in significant consequences due to their lower body mass.

A notable example involves a patient receiving a tenfold overdose of morphine due to a decimal point error. Instead of 2.5 mg, the patient received 25 mg, leading to severe respiratory depression. This case underscores the need for nurses to double-check calculations, verify orders, and use tools like weight-based formulas and dose-checking software.

 

Discuss the process of calculating infusion rates for intravenous (IV) medications. Include an example with step-by-step calculations.

Answer:

Calculating IV infusion rates ensures that patients receive the correct medication volume over the prescribed time. The formula for calculating IV flow rate (mL/hr) is:

Flow Rate=Total Volume (mL)Time (hours)\text{Flow Rate} = \frac{\text{Total Volume (mL)}}{\text{Time (hours)}}Flow Rate=Time (hours)Total Volume (mL)​

Example:
A provider orders 1,000 mL of normal saline to infuse over 8 hours.

Step 1: Identify total volume and time:

• Total Volume = 1,000 mL
• Time = 8 hours

Step 2: Apply the formula:

Flow Rate=1,0008=125 mL/hr\text{Flow Rate} = \frac{1,000}{8} = 125 \, \text{mL/hr}Flow Rate=81,000​=125mL/hr

Thus, the infusion pump should be set to 125 mL/hr. Accurate calculations and double-checking these settings are vital to avoid under- or over-infusion, which can cause fluid imbalances.

 

A nurse is tasked with administering a weight-based medication. Discuss the steps involved in calculating the correct dose and ensuring safety. Provide an example calculation for clarity.

Answer:

Weight-based medication dosing is commonly used in pediatrics and critical care. Steps to calculate and ensure safety include:

1. Verify the Patient’s Weight: Ensure the weight is accurate and recorded in the correct unit (kg or lbs).
2. Determine the Prescribed Dose: Understand the dose per unit of weight (e.g., mg/kg).
3. Calculate the Total Dose: Multiply the weight by the dose per unit weight.
4. Verify Medication Concentration: Confirm the available concentration and calculate the volume required.
5. Double-Check Calculations: Use independent verification methods to reduce errors.

Example: A child weighing 25 kg is prescribed 2 mg/kg of medication. The medication is available as 50 mg/5 mL.

• Step 1: Calculate the total dose: $25\text{kg}\times 2\text{mg/kg}=50\text{mg}$.
• Step 2: Determine the volume needed: 50 mg×5 mL50 mg=5 mL\frac{50 \, \text{mg} \times 5 \, \text{mL}}{50 \, \text{mg}} = 5 \, \text{mL}50mg50mg×5mL​=5mL.

Administer 5 mL of the solution. These steps ensure precision and safety, minimizing medication errors.

 

Describe common challenges nurses face when performing dosage calculations and strategies to overcome them.

Answer:

Common challenges in dosage calculations include:

1. Complex Calculations: Some formulas require multiple steps, which increase the risk of errors.
2. Unit Conversions: Confusion between units (e.g., mg to g, mL to L) can lead to incorrect doses.
3. Stress and Fatigue: High workload and fatigue can reduce concentration and lead to mistakes.
4. Faulty Equipment or Labels: Incorrect or unclear medication labels may result in misinterpretation.

Strategies to Overcome Challenges:

• Use Standardized Tools: Employ calculation apps or automated systems for accuracy.
• Verify and Double-Check: Have another nurse or pharmacist verify critical calculations.
• Ongoing Education: Regular training improves familiarity with formulas and updates knowledge.
• Take Breaks: Resting between tasks reduces mental fatigue and improves focus.

Implementing these strategies fosters a culture of safety and minimizes calculation errors.

 

Analyze the role of technology in improving the accuracy of dosage calculations. Discuss both benefits and limitations.

Answer:

Technology plays a vital role in enhancing dosage calculation accuracy through tools such as automated pumps, electronic medical records (EMRs), and calculation software.

Benefits:

1. Minimized Errors: Automated calculations reduce human error, especially in complex dosages.
2. Efficiency: Software accelerates calculations, saving time in high-pressure situations.
3. Integration with Patient Data: EMRs link calculations with patient-specific details like weight and allergies, improving customization.
4. Alerts and Warnings: Systems alert nurses to potential overdose risks or drug interactions.

Limitations:

1. Technical Failures: Malfunctions or incorrect software inputs can still cause errors.
2. Over-Reliance: Nurses may become complacent and fail to verify outputs manually.
3. Access and Training: Not all facilities have access to advanced tools, and training is needed to use them effectively.

In conclusion, while technology significantly improves accuracy, nurses must remain vigilant, verifying outputs to uphold patient safety.

 

Discuss the ethical and legal implications of dosage calculation errors in nursing practice. How can nurses protect themselves from liability in these cases?

Answer:

Dosage calculation errors can have significant ethical and legal implications in nursing. Ethically, nurses are responsible for ensuring patient safety and providing care with competence and diligence. Errors that result in harm breach the principle of nonmaleficence. Legally, nurses may face lawsuits for negligence if the error results from a failure to meet the standard of care.

Protection Against Liability:

1. Adherence to Protocols: Follow hospital policies and evidence-based practices for calculations.
2. Double-Checking: Always verify calculations independently and seek peer verification for high-risk medications.
3. Documentation: Maintain detailed and accurate records of calculations and administration.
4. Ongoing Education: Stay updated with dosage calculation skills and changes in medication guidelines.
5. Advocacy: If an order seems incorrect, question it and consult the provider.

By following these measures, nurses can minimize errors and protect themselves from legal repercussions.

 

Explain the role of dimensional analysis in dosage calculations and provide a step-by-step example.

Answer:

Dimensional analysis is a systematic approach to solving dosage calculation problems by using conversion factors to ensure all units cancel out except the desired one. This method reduces errors and enhances accuracy.

Example: A provider prescribes 500 mg of medication. The medication is available as 250 mg tablets. Determine how many tablets to administer.

1. Identify the knowns:
   • Prescribed dose = 500 mg
   • Available dose = 250 mg/tablet
2. Set up the equation using dimensional analysis:

500 mg×1 tablet250 mg=2 tablets500 \, \text{mg} \times \frac{1 \, \text{tablet}}{250 \, \text{mg}} = 2 \, \text{tablets}500mg×250mg1tablet​=2tablets

3. Perform the calculation:
   The nurse should administer 2 tablets.

Dimensional analysis ensures accuracy by breaking complex problems into manageable steps.

 

Describe the process of calculating pediatric dosages based on body surface area (BSA). Include a worked example using the formula.

Answer:

Pediatric dosages are often calculated using BSA because it provides a more accurate dose for children with varying weights and heights. The formula for BSA-based dosing is:

Dose=Prescribed Dose×BSA (m2)1.73 m2\text{Dose} = \text{Prescribed Dose} \times \frac{\text{BSA (m}^2\text{)}}{1.73 \, \text{m}^2}Dose=Prescribed Dose×1.73m2BSA (m2)​

Example:
A child’s BSA is 0.8 m². The prescribed dose for an adult is 400 mg. Calculate the child’s dose.

1. Plug values into the formula:

Dose=400 mg×0.8 m21.73 m2\text{Dose} = 400 \, \text{mg} \times \frac{0.8 \, \text{m}^2}{1.73 \, \text{m}^2}Dose=400mg×1.73m20.8m2​

2. Calculate:

$$\text{Dose}=400\times 0.462=184.8\text{mg}$$

3. Round as needed:
   The dose is approximately 185 mg.

BSA-based calculations are vital for determining safe and effective pediatric doses.

 

Evaluate the use of ratio and proportion methods in dosage calculations. How does it compare to other methods? Provide an example.

Answer:

The ratio and proportion method involves setting up an equation where the known ratio of dose to volume is proportional to the required dose to the unknown volume. It is widely used due to its simplicity and applicability across different types of calculations.

Comparison:

• Advantages: Intuitive and works well for straightforward calculations.
• Disadvantages: Less effective for complex or multi-step problems compared to dimensional analysis.

Example: A patient is prescribed 200 mg of medication, and the medication comes in a concentration of 100 mg/5 mL. How many mL are needed?

1. Set up the proportion:

$$100\text{mg}:5\text{mL}=200\text{mg}:x\text{mL}$$

2. Solve for $x$:

x=200×5100=10 mLx = \frac{200 \times 5}{100} = 10 \, \text{mL}x=100200×5​=10mL

The nurse should administer 10 mL. The ratio and proportion method is practical for many routine dosage calculations.

 

How does the “6 Rights of Medication Administration” principle relate to dosage calculations? Illustrate its application with an example.

Answer:

The 6 Rights of Medication Administration—right patient, right drug, right dose, right time, right route, and right documentation—are fundamental in ensuring safe and accurate medication delivery. These rights directly relate to dosage calculations by reinforcing checks and balances.

Example Application:
A nurse administering an IV antibiotic follows these steps:

1. Right Patient: Verify patient identity using two identifiers.
2. Right Drug: Confirm the drug matches the provider’s order.
3. Right Dose: Calculate the dose based on the order (e.g., 500 mg, verify concentration).
4. Right Time: Administer the drug at the prescribed intervals.
5. Right Route: Confirm the route (e.g., IV vs. oral).
6. Right Documentation: Record the administration details and dosage.

By adhering to these principles, the nurse minimizes errors and ensures accurate dosing.

 

Explain how to calculate IV fluid replacement for a patient with severe dehydration, considering factors such as weight, ongoing losses, and maintenance requirements. Provide an example calculation.

Answer:
Calculating IV fluid replacement involves three components:

1. Deficit Replacement: Addressing the fluid lost due to dehydration.
2. Maintenance Needs: Meeting daily hydration requirements.
3. Ongoing Losses: Replacing fluids lost due to ongoing issues (e.g., vomiting or diarrhea).

Example Calculation:

• A 60 kg patient with 10% dehydration needs IV fluid replacement.
• Fluid deficit = 10% × body weight (kg) × 1000 mL

$$\text{Fluid deficit}=0.1\times 60\times 1000=6000\text{mL}$$

This deficit is usually replaced over 24-48 hours.

Maintenance Needs: Based on the “4-2-1 rule” for hourly maintenance:

$$4\text{mL/kg/hr for the first 10 kg}+2\text{mL/kg/hr for the next 10 kg}+1\text{mL/kg/hr for remaining kg}$$ $$\text{Maintenance rate}=(4\times 10)+(2\times 10)+(1\times 40)=80\text{mL/hour}$$

Daily maintenance needs = $80\times 24=1920\text{mL/day}$.

Ongoing Losses: Suppose the patient loses 500 mL due to vomiting. Add this to the total fluids required.

$$\text{Total fluid need (day 1)}=6000+1920+500=8420\text{mL}$$

IV fluids should be infused at a controlled rate and monitored regularly. Adjustments are made based on clinical response.

 

 

Intravenous (IV) Infusion Rate

Question:

A patient is prescribed 1000 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride to be infused over 8 hours. The drop factor is 15 drops/mL. Calculate the IV flow rate in drops per minute.

Solution:

1. Formula:

Flow rate (drops/min)=Total volume (mL)×Drop factor (drops/mL)Time (minutes)\text{Flow rate (drops/min)} = \frac{\text{Total volume (mL)} \times \text{Drop factor (drops/mL)}}{\text{Time (minutes)}}Flow rate (drops/min)=Time (minutes)Total volume (mL)×Drop factor (drops/mL)​

2. Substitute values:

Flow rate=1000 mL×15 drops/mL8 hours×60 minutes/hour=15000480=31.25 drops/min\text{Flow rate} = \frac{1000 \, \text{mL} \times 15 \, \text{drops/mL}}{8 \, \text{hours} \times 60 \, \text{minutes/hour}} = \frac{15000}{480} = 31.25 \, \text{drops/min}Flow rate=8hours×60minutes/hour1000mL×15drops/mL​=48015000​=31.25drops/min

3. Round to nearest whole number:
   Flow rate = 31 drops/min.

Answer: The IV should be set to deliver 31 drops per minute.

 

Scenario 2: Pediatric Dosage Based on Weight

Question:

A child weighs 20 kg and is prescribed 15 mg/kg of acetaminophen every 6 hours. The medication comes in a concentration of 160 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer per dose?

Solution:

1. Calculate the dose:

$$\text{Dose}=15\text{mg/kg}\times 20\text{kg}=300\text{mg}$$

2. Determine the volume to administer:

Volume (mL)=Dose (mg)Concentration (mg/mL)=300 mg160 mg/5 mL=300 mg×5 mL160 mg=9.375 mL\text{Volume (mL)} = \frac{\text{Dose (mg)}}{\text{Concentration (mg/mL)}} = \frac{300 \, \text{mg}}{160 \, \text{mg/5 mL}} = \frac{300 \, \text{mg} \times 5 \, \text{mL}}{160 \, \text{mg}} = 9.375 \, \text{mL}Volume (mL)=Concentration (mg/mL)Dose (mg)​=160mg/5 mL300mg​=160mg300mg×5mL​=9.375mL

3. Round appropriately:
   Volume = 9.4 mL.

Answer: Administer 9.4 mL per dose.

 

Applied Knowledge Questions

Question 1: Safe Dosage Ranges

A patient is prescribed 2 mg/kg of a medication. The patient weighs 75 kg. The safe dosage range for this medication is 100–200 mg per dose. Is the prescribed dose within the safe range?

Solution:

1. Calculate prescribed dose:

$$2\text{mg/kg}\times 75\text{kg}=150\text{mg}$$

2. Check safe range:
   The dose (150 mg) falls between 100–200 mg.

Answer: The prescribed dose is within the safe range.

 

Question 2: Insulin Administration

A diabetic patient’s sliding scale insulin order reads as follows:

• Blood glucose (BG): 150–200 mg/dL → 2 units
• BG: 201–250 mg/dL → 4 units
• BG: 251–300 mg/dL → 6 units

The patient’s BG is 278 mg/dL. How many units of insulin should the nurse administer?

Answer:
Based on the sliding scale, a BG of 278 mg/dL corresponds to 6 units of insulin. Administer 6 units.

 

Critical Thinking

A patient is prescribed 250 mg of a medication to be infused over 1 hour. The IV bag contains 500 mg in 100 mL. Calculate the infusion rate in mL/hour and discuss the importance of double-checking infusion pumps.

Answer:

1. Calculate infusion rate:

Infusion rate (mL/hour)=Desired dose (mg)×Volume (mL)Available dose (mg)=250 mg×100 mL500 mg=50 mL/hour\text{Infusion rate (mL/hour)} = \frac{\text{Desired dose (mg)} \times \text{Volume (mL)}}{\text{Available dose (mg)}} = \frac{250 \, \text{mg} \times 100 \, \text{mL}}{500 \, \text{mg}} = 50 \, \text{mL/hour}Infusion rate (mL/hour)=Available dose (mg)Desired dose (mg)×Volume (mL)​=500mg250mg×100mL​=50mL/hour

2. Importance of double-checking pumps:
   Infusion pumps ensure precise delivery of medication. Incorrect settings can lead to under-dosing or overdosing, potentially causing harm. Nurses should verify the prescribed dose, set the correct rate, and check compatibility with the patient’s condition.

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