Question

a nurse on pediatric unit is implementing a prescription for dexamethasone solution 0.3 mg/kg now. which of the following additional information should nurse interpret this prescription and administer this medication.

brand name

frequency

strength of solution

weight of child

route

Answer 1

Given information:

A nurse on pediatric unit is implementing a prescription for dexamethasone solution 0.3mg/kg now.

The following additional information should be interpreted by the nurse while administering the prescribed medication.

• Strength of solution:

​​​​​​Before administering dexamethasone solution,the nurse has to check the strength of the available drug.

Ex:Dexamethasone solution for injection 4mg/mL.

• Weight of child:

​​​​​​The prescription ordered is dexamethasone solution 0.3mg/kg.Hence it is essential to have child's body weight to calculate total dose required to administer.

Ex:If the body weight is 10kg,then the dose to give is

0.3mg×10kg

=3mg

• ​​​​Route

​​​​​​The nurse sholud check for prescription order to identify the route of administration.

Ex:Inj.Dexona 3mg IV.

Note:

Brand name is not essential as generic name is given(Dexamethasone Solution).

Frequency :As the nurse is implementing stat order,there is no need of drug frequency details.