Question

A mother calls the clinic to ask about giving acetaminophen to her 2-month-old. She says she has used the liquid form for her 5-year-old child, and she wants to know how much to give to her infant, who has a fever. The nurse should

a) Advise against giving acetaminophen to infants
b) Recommend a dosage based on the infant's weight
c) Recommend a standard dosage for infants
d) Consult with a physician before instructing the mother on giving the medication.

Answer 1

Before giving acetaminophen to a 2-month-old infant, the nurse should consult a physician for appropriate dosing based on the infant's weight and ensure the correct infant formula is used to avoid risks such as liver damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should consult with a physician before instructing the mother on giving acetaminophen to her 2-month-old infant. It is crucial to consider the infant's weight and to ensure the correct formula for infants is used, as there can be significant differences in concentration between infants' and children's medications. Parents should always read and follow the label's directions, bearing in mind that dosages are often based on the child's weight and age. Acetaminophen can be a safe and effective medication when used correctly, but an overdose can cause liver damage or even be fatal.