NursingPlex
    Sign In
    Hesi RN Dosage Calculation WGU Proctored Exam
    Calculation

    A child who weighs 40 kg receives a prescription for acetaminophen 15 mg/kg/dose PO every 4 to 6 hours PRN for fever. What is the maximum daily dose the nurse should administer? (Enter the numerical value only.)

    mg

    Explanation & Rationale

    Here's how to calculate the maximum daily dose of acetaminophen for the child, considering the information provided: 1. We are not given a specific maximum dose in mg/kg/day. It's important to be cautious and rely on the prescribed dose and frequency (every 4-6 hours PRN) for this calculation. 2. Calculate the maximum number of doses per day: Since the prescription states "every 4 to 6 hours PRN," we can find the maximum number of doses possible in a 24-hour period: Maximum doses/day = 24 hours / Minimum dosing interval (hours) Maximum doses/day = 24 hours / 4 hours/dose Maximum doses/day = 6 doses/day (This represents the most frequent dosing scenario within the prescribed window) 3. Calculate the maximum daily dose based on the prescribed dose and maximum frequency: Maximum daily dose (mg) = Prescribed dose (mg/kg/dose) x Weight (kg) x Maximum doses/day Maximum daily dose (mg) = 15 mg/kg/dose x 40 kg x 6 doses/day Maximum daily dose (mg) = 3600 mg Therefore, the maximum daily dose the nurse should document is 3600 mg based on the prescribed frequency (every 4-6 hours PRN).

    🔒 Submit your answer to reveal