How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

A nurse is preparing to administer dobutamine 12 mcg/kg/min by continuous IV infusion to a preterm newborn who weighs 2 kg. Available is dobutamine 250 mg in 500 mL dextrose 5% in water. The nurse should set the IV pump to deliver how many mL/hr?
(Round the answer to the nearest tenth. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)
Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is ["2.9"]

Let’s calculate the IV pump rate for administering dobutamine to a preterm newborn.

Step 1 is to convert the dose from mcg/kg/min to mg/kg/min. We know that 1 mg = 1000 mcg, so we have:

12 mcg/kg/min ÷ 1000 = 0.012 mg/kg/min

Step 2 is to calculate the total amount of dobutamine the newborn needs per minute:

0.012 mg/kg/min × 2 kg = 0.024 mg/min

Step 3 is to convert this to an hourly rate:

0.024 mg/min × 60 min/hr = 1.44 mg/hr

Step 4 is to calculate the volume of the solution that contains this amount of dobutamine. We know that 250 mg of dobutamine is dissolved in 500 mL of solution, so:

(1.44 mg/hr ÷ 250 mg) × 500 mL = 2.88 mL/hr

So, the nurse should set the IV pump to deliver approximately 2.9 mL/hr (rounded to the nearest tenth).


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that works by increasing the activity of the intestines to cause a bowel movement. It is usually used on a short-term basis to treat constipation or to empty the bowels before surgery or certain medical procedures. However, bisacodyl should not be used in postpartum clients who have had a cesarean delivery or an episiotomy, as it may cause straining and increase the risk of bleeding or infection. Therefore, the nurse should clarify this prescription with the provider and suggest an alternative laxative that is safer for postpartum clients, such as docusate sodium or psyllium.

Calcium carbonate 750 mg PO.

There is no need to clarify this prescription. Calcium carbonate is a common supplement used to provide calcium to the body, and it is typically taken orally.

Oxycodone 5 mg PO every 4 hr PRN for severe pain.

There is no need to clarify this prescription. Oxycodone is a strong opioid analgesic commonly used for severe pain management, and the specified dose and frequency are within the usual range.

Ibuprofen 600 mg PO every 6 hr PRN for moderate pain.

There is no need to clarify this prescription. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for pain relief, including moderate pain. The specified dose and frequency are within the usual range.

Correct Answer is ["1.8"]

Explanation

Dose = Desired dose / Available dose x Volume Therefore;

Dose = (56 mg / 160 mg) x 5 mL Therefore;

Dose = 0.35 x 5 mL Dose = 1.75 mL

Round to the nearest tenth: Dose = 1.8 mL

The nurse should administer 1.8 mL

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register