iiii Weight Based Calculations
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Many medications doses are calculated based on weight
Most are based on weight in kilograms
1lb = 2.2 kg
To convert weight in pounds to weight in kilograms, divide by 2.2
120lbs / 2.2 kg = 54.54 and round to the 10th = 54.5
Medications may be ordered as mg/kg, particularly in pediatric dosing.
o Example: order: administer acetaminophen to a child weighing 5 lbs
o 5 / 2.2 = 2.27kg rounded to the 10 = 2.3kg
o 2.3kg x 2mg = 4.6mg
Heparin is a weight based drug calculation ordered in units/kg.
o We will discuss heparin calculation later in the semester.