A nurse is preparing to administer aspirin 650 mg PO. Available in aspirin 325 mg tablets.
How many tablets should the nurse administer?
A.
1.
B.
2.
C.
3.
D.
4.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
To determine the number of aspirin tablets the nurse should administer, we first need to establish how many 325 mg tablets are required to achieve a total dose of 650 mg.
Calculation Steps:
- Identify the Total Required Dose: The order is for 650 mg of aspirin.
- Identify the Available Dose: The available medication is in the form of 325 mg tablets.
- Calculate the Number of Tablets Needed: To find out how many 325 mg tablets are needed to reach 650 mg, we use the following formula:Number of tablets=Total required doseDose per tablet\text{Number of tablets} = \frac{\text{Total required dose}}{\text{Dose per tablet}}Number of tablets=Dose per tabletTotal required doseSubstituting the values:Number of tablets=650 mg325 mg/tablet=2 tablets\text{Number of tablets} = \frac{650 \text{ mg}}{325 \text{ mg/tablet}} = 2 \text{ tablets}Number of tablets=325 mg/tablet650 mg=2 tablets
- Conclusion: The nurse should administer 2 tablets of aspirin.
Answer: B. 2
Explanation:
In medication administration, precise calculations are crucial for ensuring patient safety and therapeutic effectiveness. When a healthcare provider prescribes a medication, the nurse must be aware of both the prescribed dose and the available formulations. In this scenario, the nurse is tasked with providing a 650 mg dose of aspirin, but it is important to note that the medication is available in 325 mg tablets.
By performing the calculation to determine the number of tablets required, the nurse can ensure the patient receives the correct dose. Overdosing could lead to serious side effects, while underdosing may not provide the desired therapeutic effect. Therefore, understanding dosage calculations is essential in nursing practice.
Additionally, the nurse should double-check the calculation and, if applicable, consider the patient’s medical history and potential allergies to aspirin. After preparing the medication, it’s essential to document the administration accurately and monitor the patient for any adverse reactions. This process not only adheres to safety standards but also promotes effective communication within the healthcare team. By ensuring the correct dosage is administered, nurses play a pivotal role in optimizing patient outcomes.