Final answer:
To convert the prescribed dose of 0.1 grams to milligrams, we multiply by 1000, yielding 100 milligrams. Since the available tablets are 50 mg each, the nurse should administer two tablets to meet the 0.1 g prescribed dose.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the calculation of drug dosage, a fundamental task in medical practice for ensuring patient safety. The specific scenario involves Ultram, a medication commonly used for pain relief. The prescribed order is for 0.1 grams (g) to be taken orally every 6 hours as needed for pain. The available medication is in the form of 50 milligram (mg) tablets.
To determine the number of tablets the nurse should administer, a unit conversion is required. Since there are 1000 milligrams in 1 gram, the prescribed 0.1 g dose is equivalent to 100 mg (0.1 g x 1000 mg/g). Dividing this by the strength of the available tablets (50 mg each) gives us the number of tablets to be administered: 100 mg ÷ 50 mg/tablet = 2 tablets.
Therefore, for this pain relief medication, the nurse will administer two 50 mg tablets of Ultram to deliver the 0.1 g dose ordered by the physician.