Overview
This lecture covers essential dosage calculation conversions necessary for nursing students, focusing on fundamental metric and weight equivalents.
Basic Dosage Conversion Factors
- 1 grain (gr) = 65 milligrams (mg).
- 1 liter (L) = 1,000 milliliters (mL).
- 1 milligram (mg) = 1,000 micrograms (mcg).
- 1 kilogram (kg) = 1,000 grams (g).
- 1 kilogram (kg) = 2.2 pounds (lbs), crucial for pediatric dosing.
Application in Nursing
- Accurate conversions are vital for safe dosage calculation in nursing practice.
- The kilogram to pounds conversion is especially important in pediatric medication calculations.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Milligram (mg) — a unit of mass equal to one-thousandth of a gram.
- Microgram (mcg) — a unit of mass equal to one-millionth of a gram.
- Grain (gr) — a unit of mass used in pharmacy, equal to 65 mg in dosing.
- Kilogram (kg) — a metric unit of mass equal to 1,000 grams.
- Liter (L) — a metric unit of volume equal to 1,000 milliliters.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Memorize these core dosage conversion factors.
- Practice converting between these units for dosage calculations.
- Review flashcards or resources from the nursing school dose calculation box.