Final answer:
To ensure the proper dose of clarithromycin is given to a 3-year-old child with pneumonia, the nurse should consult a pediatric drug reference or resource for accurate dosing guidelines. The nurse should calculate the child's dose based on factors such as weight and age, and consult with the healthcare provider to confirm the appropriate dose.
Step-by-step explanation:
To ensure that the proper dose of clarithromycin is given to the 3-year-old child with pneumonia, the nurse should consult a pediatric drug reference or resource. This resource will provide information specific to pediatric dosing guidelines for various medications. Since the drug guide being used only lists the recommended adult dose, it is important to find a reference that provides accurate dosing information for children.
The nurse should calculate the child's dose based on factors such as weight and age. Pediatric dosing often takes into account the child's body mass in order to determine the appropriate dose. The chosen reference should provide a range of doses based on the child's specific characteristics.
In addition, the nurse should consult with the healthcare provider to confirm the appropriate dose. The healthcare provider may have specific guidelines for pediatric dosing that should be followed. It is crucial to ensure that the child receives the correct dose to promote effective treatment while minimizing the risk of adverse effects and toxicity.