Final answer:
When administering liquids, suspensions, or elixirs, the proper liquid level to read is at the bottom of the meniscus, with the measuring device level and the observer's eye at the liquid's surface. Precise measurements require a systematic approach to adding solute, solvent, and thorough mixing. This knowledge is also applied in healthcare settings, such as IV fluid administration.
Step-by-step explanation:
When administering liquids, suspensions, elixirs, the liquid level should always be read at the bottom of the meniscus. To ensure an accurate measurement, you must ensure that the instrument, such as a graduated cylinder, is level and that your eye is at the same level as the top of the liquid. In the case of a graduated cylinder, you must mentally subdivide the distance between the measurement marks and then make a reading (estimate) at the bottom of the meniscus.
For precise measurements, such as those needed for preparing solutions in a volumetric flask, the process involves weighing the appropriate mass of solute, adding it to the flask with some distilled water, swirling until it dissolves, and then filling up to the etched line with more distilled water. The flask is then capped and inverted multiple times to ensure thorough mixing before taking any aliquots for further procedures.
It is also important for healthcare applications, such as IV administration, to position bags at the correct height to ensure fluid dynamics are appropriate for the entry of fluids into the arm, based on principles of gravity and flow rates.