Pediatric Dosing on the NCLEX
Weight-based pediatric dosing, max doses, common peds meds.
Peds dosing on the NCLEX is almost always mg/kg. Convert weight, calculate dose, compare to safe range.
Convert pounds to kg
Divide lb by 2.2.
Common peds doses
Acetaminophen 10-15 mg/kg q4-6h (max 5 doses/24h, max 75 mg/kg/day). Ibuprofen 5-10 mg/kg q6-8h. Amoxicillin 20-50 mg/kg/day divided. Diphenhydramine 1 mg/kg q6h (max 50 mg).
Always check safe range
NCLEX questions often give an order outside safe range. Catch it. Don't administer. Notify provider.
Frequently asked
Round peds doses?
Generally to tenths for liquid; to convenient measurable amount. Always check it's still within safe range.
Quick check
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