ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7MathematicsEasy
A patient is prescribed a medication that comes in a concentration of 250 mg per 5 mL. The physician orders 375 mg of the medication. How many milliliters (mL) of the medication should the nurse administer?
- A10 mL
- B12.5 mL
- C5 mL
- D7.5 mL
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 7.5 mL
To find the correct dosage in mL, set up a proportion using the available concentration and the ordered dose. Calculate the unknown volume by cross-multiplication. This method ensures accurate administration based on the prescribed amount.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This would be the dose if 500 mg was ordered, not 375 mg.
- B. This is an overestimation, likely from an incorrect calculation or proportion setup.
- C. This would be the dose if 250 mg was ordered, not 375 mg.
Dosage Calculation by Proportion
A method used to determine the correct amount of medication to administer based on a known concentration and a desired dose, by setting up an equivalent ratio.
- Uses the formula: (Desired Dose / Have Dose) * Quantity Have.
- Ensures accurate medication administration.
- Requires consistent units for 'Desired Dose' and 'Have Dose'.
Memory trick: Doctors Order, Nurses Measure Carefully.