A toddler has an infection with an elevated temperature. The nurse is preparing to administer acetaminophen elixir, every 4 hours. If the maximum daily dosage of acetaminophen is 60 mg/kg and the patient weighs 22 lb, which of the following dosages is acceptable?

Explanation

•The maximum daily dose for this patient is 600 mg, or 100 mg every 4 hours. Since this is the maximum safe dose, effectiveness can still be achieved with a lower dose while increasing patient's safety. Eighty milligrams (80 mg) every 4 hours is equivalent to 480 mg per day.

22 lb = 10 kg
10 kg x 60 mg/kg = 600 mg per day maximum
600 mg/6 doses = 100 mg per dose maximum

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