Final answer:
To calculate the number of capsules needed, convert the weight of the child from pounds to kilograms. Multiply the weight in kilograms by the dosage per kilogram to find the total dosage. Divide the total dosage by the dosage per capsule to find the number of capsules needed. You would administer 9 capsules for each dose to the 31 lb child.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the number of capsules needed for each dose, we need to convert the weight of the child from pounds to kilograms. There are 2.2 pounds in a kilogram, so the child's weight in kilograms would be 31 divided by 2.2, which is approximately 14.09 kg.
The doctor's order specifies a dosage of 8 mg/kg. Therefore, to find the dosage for the child, we multiply the weight in kilograms by the dosage per kilogram: 14.09 kg * 8 mg/kg = 112.72 mg.
Since each capsule contains 12.5 mg of chlorothiazide, we divide the total dosage of 112.72 mg by 12.5 mg to find the number of capsules needed: 112.72 mg / 12.5 mg = 9.0.
Therefore, you would administer 9 capsules for each dose to the 31 lb child.