A child who weighs 55 lb receives a prescription for cefotaxime 150 mg/kg/day IV in divided doses every 6 hours. How many mg should the nurse administer each day?

(Enter numerical value only.)

Calculate the volume of the reconstituted solution that contains the prescribed dose of 0.1875 mg. Since the reconstituted solution has a concentration of 0.25 mg per 1 mL, we can set up a proportion to find the answer: (0.1875 mg / X mL) = (0.25 mg / 1 mL).

Solving for X gives us X = (0.1875 mg * 1 mL) / 0.25 mg, which equals 0.75 mL.

Therefore, the nurse should administer 0.75 mL of the reconstituted solution.

Rationale

A. This comment suggests that the client is aware of the correct technique (inhaling and holding breath) but finds it difficult to execute properly. It indicates a partial understanding of the inhaler technique but potential difficulty in coordination.

B. This comment indicates a misunderstanding of the purpose of a rescue inhaler. Rescue inhalers are intended to be used promptly at the onset of symptoms to relieve acute shortness of breath. Delaying use until symptoms are severe may result in inadequate relief and worsening of respiratory distress.

C. This comment suggests that the client may be swallowing the medication instead of inhaling it into the lungs. Inhalers are meant to deliver medication directly into the lungs through inhalation, not swallowing. Swallowing the medication can lead to gastrointestinal side effects like nausea.

D. Shaking the inhaler before use is a correct step to ensure proper dispersion of the medication. This comment indicates the client understands and follows this part of the inhaler technique correctly.