The nurse will give Amoxicillin 25 mg/kg as ordered. How many tablet(s) of Amoxicillin is needed if the medication is supplied as 500 mg tablets and the patient weighs 10 kg?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: The dose is 25 mg/kg × 10 kg = 250 mg. With 500 mg tablets, 250 mg requires 250 ÷ 500 = 0.5 tablet. This precise calculation ensures the correct dose, minimizing the risk of under- or overdosing, making this the correct choice. Choice B reason: A 0.75 tablet dose equals 375 mg (0.75 × 500 mg), exceeding the ordered 250 mg. This could lead to toxicity, as Amoxicillin overdosing may cause gastrointestinal or renal issues, making this an incorrect and potentially harmful choice. Choice C reason: A 1.25 tablet dose equals 625 mg (1.25 × 500 mg), significantly more than the ordered 250 mg. This excessive dose risks severe side effects, including allergic reactions or organ stress, making this an unsafe and incorrect choice. Choice D reason: A 0.25 tablet dose equals 125 mg (0.25 × 500 mg), less than the ordered 250 mg. This underdose could lead to ineffective treatment, increasing the risk of bacterial resistance, making this an incorrect choice for the prescribed dose.