Question

Read the medication labels where available, and calculate the number of tablets or capsules necessary to provide the dosage ordered. Include the label on your answer. Order: Nembutal \(100 \mathrm{mg}\) p.o. at bedtime. Available: Nembutal capsules labeled \(50 \mathrm{mg}\) _______.

Short answer

2 capsules are needed to meet the 100 mg dosage order.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Order

The doctor's order is for the patient to take Nembutal at a dosage of 100 mg by mouth (p.o.) at bedtime.

Analyze Medication Availability

We have Nembutal capsules available, but each capsule is labeled as containing 50 mg of medication.

Calculate Required Number of Capsules

To meet the 100 mg dosage ordered by the physician, we need multiple capsules. Since each capsule contains 50 mg, we calculate the required number by dividing the ordered dose by the dose per capsule: \[ \frac{100}{50} = 2 \] Therefore, 2 capsules are needed to fulfill the 100 mg order.

Key concepts

Medication Labels

Understanding medication labels is a critical step in ensuring the correct dosage is administered. These labels provide important information about the medication, such as the type of drug, dosage form, strength, and how it should be administered.
When interpreting a medication label, pay particular attention to the strength of the active ingredient. It is typically expressed in milligrams (mg) or grams (g), and determines the amount of the drug contained in each dosage form, such as a tablet or capsule.
Additionally, look for instructions regarding the route of administration, such as "p.o." (per os), which means "by mouth." This tells you how the medication should be taken.

• Ensure you are reading the label correctly to avoid any medication errors.
• Always check if the label matches the ordered dosage before proceeding to administer the medicine.

Capsule Dosage

Capsule dosage is the process of determining the amount of medication to be administered. It requires careful consideration of the strength of the medication provided and the prescribed dosage.
In the example provided, the doctor ordered a dosage of 100 mg Nembutal to be taken orally at bedtime. However, each available capsule contains only 50 mg of Nembutal.
To calculate the required number of capsules, you need to divide the total prescribed dosage by the mg amount contained in each capsule. In this scenario, \[ \frac{100\ \text{mg}}{50\ \text{mg/capsule}} = 2\ \text{capsules} \] Therefore, the patient would need two capsules of 50 mg each to achieve the total ordered dosage of 100 mg at bedtime.

Nursing Calculations

Nursing calculations are crucial in ensuring that patients receive the correct dose of medication. These calculations help bridge the gap between the physician's order and the actual medication being given to patients.
To minimize errors, it's essential to develop solid calculation skills. This includes understanding how to convert units, calculate dosages, and prepare medications properly.
When calculating dosages:

• Carefully read the medication order and label.
• Use the formula: \( \text{Number of doses required} = \frac{\text{Ordered dose}}{\text{Dose per tablet/capsule}} \).
• Double-check results with colleagues if uncertain.

Consistent practice and experience will enhance your ability to make these calculations accurately and efficiently.

Medication Administration

Medication administration is the final step in the process, where the calculated dose is given to the patient safely and effectively. This involves following the "Five Rights" of medication administration: right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time.
Ensuring that each "right" is accurately addressed reduces the risk of medication errors.

• Verify the patient's identity to confirm that the medication is being administered to the correct individual.
• Cross-check the medication name and dosage with the physician's order and the label on the medication.
• Administer the medication using the correct method, such as orally, as ordered.

By adhering to these principles, healthcare professionals can ensure the safety and efficacy of the medication regimen for their patients.