Question

A prescriber has ordered medication for a newborn. The medication is eliminated primarily by hepatic metabolism. The nurse expects the prescriber to ___________.

1) order a dose that is lower than an adult dose.
2) order a dose that is higher than an adult dose.
3) increase the frequency of medication dosing.
4) discontinue the drug after one or two doses.

Answer 1

The prescriber is expected to order a dose for the newborn that is lower than an adult dose due to the immature hepatic metabolism in newborns, which reduces drug metabolism and clearance.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a prescriber orders medication for a newborn and the drug is eliminated primarily by hepatic metabolism, the nurse expects the prescriber to order a dose that is lower than an adult dose. This expectation is based on the fact that newborns have immature liver and kidney functions, which can result in reduced drug metabolism or clearance. Therefore, to prevent toxicity and avoid potential side effects, the dosage must be carefully determined. Moreover, the plasma levels achieved by the route of administration, whether intravenous, oral, or intramuscular, are an important consideration.