Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What should the nurse emphasize regarding the use of acetaminophen for a child with a fever?

1. Use it only if the fever exceeds 39 C (102.2 F)

2. Administer it every 4 hours regardless of temperature

3. Adjust the dose based on the child's weight

4. Only use it if the child is experiencing discomfort

The correct answer is: Adjust the dose based on the child's weight

Emphasizing the importance of adjusting the dose of acetaminophen based on the child's weight is crucial for ensuring safe and effective medication administration. Acetaminophen dosage for children is typically calculated based on their weight to avoid overdosing or underdosing, which can lead to serious consequences, including liver damage or ineffective fever control. Weight-based dosing ensures that each child receives an appropriate amount of the medication, considering their unique body composition and metabolic rate. This is particularly significant in pediatrics, as children's bodies metabolize medications differently than adults. By focusing on weight for dosage, the nurse can provide tailored care to each child, which is crucial in pediatrics where dosing guidelines are often specified in terms of milligrams of medication per kilogram of body weight. This approach helps ensure both safety and efficacy when managing fever with acetaminophen.