Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

For a child with a rectal temperature of 102.2 F (39 C), what is the appropriate dosage of acetaminophen?

1. 5 mL

2. 8.8 mL

3. 10 mL

4. 12 mL

The correct answer is: 8.8 mL

To determine the appropriate dosage of acetaminophen for a child with a rectal temperature of 102.2 F (39 C), it is vital to consider the recommended dosing guidelines based on weight and age, as these factors significantly impact the dosage. Acetaminophen is often dosed at 10-15 mg per kilogram of body weight for fever reduction in children. Assuming the child weighs approximately 22 kg (which is common for children around the age of 6-7), the calculation would be as follows: - At the lower end of the dosing range: 22 kg x 10 mg/kg = 220 mg - At the higher end of the dosing range: 22 kg x 15 mg/kg = 330 mg The liquid formulation of acetaminophen (typically 160 mg per 5 mL) can then guide the specific volume to administer. Converting the appropriate dose in milligrams to milliliters can be calculated as: - For the lower dosage of 220 mg: (220 mg ÷ 160 mg) × 5 mL = 6.875 mL - For the higher dosage of 330 mg: (330 mg ÷ 160 mg) × 5