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.)

Rationale

A. In the early phase following a burn injury, there is increased capillary permeability due to the release of inflammatory mediators. This results in fluid shifting from the intravascular space into the interstitial space (capillary leaking), leading to hypovolemia and decreased tissue perfusion. Administering crystalloid fluids helps to restore intravascular volume (fluid resuscitation) and improve tissue perfusion.

B. Burn injuries can lead to increased evaporative water loss through damaged skin (insensible water loss). Crystalloid fluids help to replace this lost fluid and maintain adequate hydration status in the client.

C. In severe burn injuries, there may be a need for blood transfusions due to hemorrhage or ongoing blood loss. Crystalloid fluids can help to extend plasma volume temporarily until blood products are available for transfusion, thereby supporting circulatory stability.

D. Burn injuries can disrupt electrolyte balance due to fluid shifts and tissue damage. Crystalloid fluids contain electrolytes (such as sodium and chloride) that help to restore and maintain electrolyte balance in the body.

The nurse recognizes that this client is Hemorrhaging due to uterine atony.

Rationale

This client is likely experiencing hemorrhaging, as indicated by the boggy fundus (uterine atony), saturated pad and sheets with blood, and the significant estimated blood loss of 600 mL after delivery. Hemorrhaging refers to excessive bleeding, which can occur due to various reasons in the postpartum period, including uterine atony.

The boggy fundus (uterus) at 1 cm above the umbilicus suggests poor uterine tone, which is indicative of uterine atony. Uterine atony is a common cause of postpartum hemorrhage and occurs when the uterus fails to contract adequately after delivery, leading to excessive bleeding.