Page 1194 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

Calculating a Child’s Dosage from the Adult
Dosage
When dosages are specified only for adults, a formula is used to calculate a child’s
dosage from the adult dosage. The adult dosage is based on a standardized body
2
surface area (BSA) of 1.73 m .
Example: A pediatrician has prescribed an antibiotic for a child. The average adult
2
dose is 250 mg. The child has a BSA of 0.41 m . What is the dose for the child?
Answer: 59.24 mg
Formula:

Box 41-7

Developmental Considerations for Administering

Medications

Infants

Perform procedure quickly, allowing the infant to swallow; then offer comfort
measures, such as holding, rocking, and cuddling.
Allow self-comforting measures, such as the use of a pacifier.

Toddlers

Offer a brief, concrete explanation of the procedure and then perform it.
Accept aggressive behavior, within reasonable limits, as a healthy response,
and provide outlets for the toddler.
Provide comfort measures immediately after the procedure, such as touch,
holding, cuddling, and providing a favorite toy.

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