A child has an order for 2.5 teaspoons of acetaminophen. The label reads 160 mg/5 mL. What is the total dose in milligrams?

A child has an order for 2.5 teaspoons of acetaminophen. The label reads 160 mg/5 mL. What is the total dose in milligrams?

• A. 200 mg
• B. 400 mg
• C. 600 mg
• D. 800 mg

Answer: (B)

Dosing by concentration requires converting the administered volume to milliliters and applying the labeled concentration. First convert the volume: 2.5 teaspoons equal 12.5 milliliters because each teaspoon is 5 mL. The label shows 160 mg in 5 mL, which means the concentration is 160 mg per 5 mL, or 32 mg per milliliter. Multiply by the total volume: 32 mg/mL × 12.5 mL = 400 mg. So the total dose is 400 mg.

Dosing by concentration requires converting the administered volume to milliliters and applying the labeled concentration. First convert the volume: 2.5 teaspoons equal 12.5 milliliters because each teaspoon is 5 mL. The label shows 160 mg in 5 mL, which means the concentration is 160 mg per 5 mL, or 32 mg per milliliter. Multiply by the total volume: 32 mg/mL × 12.5 mL = 400 mg. So the total dose is 400 mg.