An order is written for 80 mg of a medication in elixir form. The medi

An order is written for 80 mg of a medication in elixir form. The medication is available in 80 mg/tsp strength. The nurse prepares to administer:

1. 2 mL
2. 5 mL
3. 10 mL
4. 15 mL

ANSWER

ANS: 2
The nurse should first change the household measurement to a metric equivalent (5 mL = 1 tsp). Then the nurse should use the formula for calculating a medication dosage:
80 mg
80 mg  5 mL = 5 mL
Option 1 is an incorrect dosage.
Option 3 is an incorrect dosage. 10 mL would equal 2 teaspoons, in this case, 160 mg.
Option 4 is an incorrect dosage. 15 mL would equal 3 teaspoons, in this case, 240 mg.