Question

Add the following decimals. If you administer two tablets labeled \(0.6 \mathrm{mg},\) what total dosage will you administer?

Short answer

You will administer a total dosage of 1.2 mg.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Values

We are given that each tablet is labeled as containing \(0.6\) mg of dosage. Since we have two tablets, identify the values we will be working with: \(0.6\) mg and \(0.6\) mg.

Set Up the Addition

Set up the addition for the two decimal values: \(0.6 + 0.6\).

Add the Decimal Values

Perform the addition: \(0.6 + 0.6 = 1.2\). Ensure when adding, the decimal points are aligned, so we are essentially adding \(6\) tenths plus \(6\) tenths, which gives \(12\) tenths, or \(1.2\).

Verify the Addition

Double-check the result by thinking of it as a real-world scenario: if you give one dose of \(0.6\) mg and another of \(0.6\) mg, logically it adds up to \(1.2\) mg.

Key concepts

Dosage Calculation

Calculating dosage is a crucial skill, particularly in healthcare settings where precise medication amounts are essential. In dosage calculation, we determine the exact amount of medication a patient should receive. For instance, when dealing with tablets, the dosage on the label tells you how much active ingredient is in each tablet. In this exercise, each tablet contains 0.6 mg of a certain substance. We have two such tablets, so to find the total dosage, we simply add these two values together.

The process involves recognizing the specific dosage per tablet and then performing basic arithmetic. This is foundational since even a small error in dosage can significantly affect patient outcomes. Therefore, understanding how to accurately calculate and verify dosages is vital for healthcare professionals. An accurate dosage calculation helps ensure that each patient receives the correct amount of medication, corresponding to their prescribed treatment.

Decimal Points Alignment

When adding, subtracting, or comparing decimal numbers, aligning the decimal points is essential. This ensures each place value is correctly lined up, preventing errors in your calculations. Decimals represent fractions whose denominators are powers of ten. Thus, the digit just after the decimal point is in the tenths place, the next in the hundredths place, and so forth.

To illustrate, think about adding 0.6 mg two times. You would place the numbers in such a way that the decimal points in each number align vertically:

• 0.6
• +0.6

By aligning the decimal points, you make sure you're adding tenths to tenths, which gives 1.2 in this scenario. Always double-check that your decimal points are aligned properly, as even a small misalignment can lead to big mistakes, especially in critical fields like medicine.

Unit Conversion

Unit conversion is the process we use to convert a measurement from one unit to another. While this exercise involves simple addition, it's important to be aware of the various units of measurement in medical dosages, such as milligrams (mg), grams (g), and micrograms (mcg).

If, for instance, a patient's dosage requirement changes or a different medication format is used, knowing how to convert between units helps make sure the correct dosage is given. For simple conversions within the metric system, remember that:

• 1 gram (g) = 1000 milligrams (mg)
• 1 milligram (mg) = 1000 micrograms (mcg)

Accurate unit conversion ensures consistency and safety in medication administration, reducing the risk of dosage errors.