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An intravenous injection of morphine sulfate, 2 mg, is prescribed for an 8-month-old infant weighing 15 lb 7 oz (7 kg). The recommended dose for an infant is 0.1 mg/kg. Why should the nurse question the prescription?

User Jlettvin
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The nurse should question the prescription as the prescribed dose exceeds the recommended dose based on the infant's weight. The nurse should consult with the physician to ensure the correct dose is given.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should question the prescription because the recommended dose for an infant is 0.1 mg/kg, but the prescribed dose of 2 mg for the 8-month-old infant exceeds this. To calculate the appropriate dose, we need to convert the infant's weight from pounds and ounces to kilograms. The infant weighs 15 lb 7 oz, which is approximately 7 kg. Therefore, the recommended dose for the infant would be 0.1 mg/kg x 7 kg = 0.7 mg.

Since the prescribed dose is 2 mg, it is higher than the recommended dose based on the infant's weight. The nurse should question the prescription and consult with the physician to ensure the correct dose is given.