A client is ordered Mylanta 1 tbsp by mouth after meals and at bedtime.
How many milliliters should the client take with each dose?
A.
30 mL
B.
15 mL
C.
10 mL
D.
5 mL
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. 15 mL.
Explanation:
The key to solving this problem is understanding the conversion between tablespoons (tbsp) and milliliters (mL). The standard conversion factor is:
1 tablespoon (tbsp) = 15 milliliters (mL)
This conversion is commonly used in healthcare and pharmacology when administering liquid medications. Since the order specifies “1 tbsp by mouth after meals and at bedtime,” the client needs to take 1 tablespoon per dose. Using the conversion, you can determine how many milliliters this is:
1 tbsp × 15 mL/tbsp = 15 mL per dose
Breaking Down the Administration:
The prescribed medication is Mylanta, an over-the-counter antacid commonly used to relieve heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach by neutralizing stomach acid. The physician has ordered that the client take 1 tablespoon of Mylanta after each meal and at bedtime, which typically totals 4 doses per day (3 meals and 1 bedtime dose).
Each dose of 1 tablespoon equals 15 mL, so the client will take 15 mL after each meal and again at bedtime. This specific dosing schedule ensures that the medication is administered consistently to help manage symptoms of excess stomach acid, often associated with gastrointestinal conditions such as acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
Clinical Significance:
Precise measurement and correct conversion between units are crucial in healthcare. A miscalculation in dosing can lead to underdosing, which may result in ineffective treatment, or overdosing, which could cause adverse effects like electrolyte imbalances or diarrhea. Thus, understanding the correct conversion (1 tbsp = 15 mL) ensures safe and effective medication administration.