b. Clark's Rule.
weight of child (lb)
adult dose
=
approximate child's dose
150
c. Young's Rule.
age of child (yr)
adult dose
=
approximate child's dose
age + 12
d. Fried's Rule.
age in months
adult dose
=
approximate child's dose
150
1-24. PEDIATRIC DOSE CALCULATION BASED ON BODY WEIGHT
a. A more reliable method of pediatric dose calculation than the preceding
dosage rules bases the dosage on a given amount of drug per pound or kilogram of
body weight.
NOTE: Round off all body weights in kilograms to the nearest whole number.
b. Example: The parenteral dose of erythromycin injection is 10 mg/kg/24
hours. Calculate the daily dose of this drug for a 44-pound child.
(1) Step 1. Convert 44 pounds to kilograms.
44 pounds
=
20 kilograms
2.2
(2) Step 2. Multiply the client's weight by the dose.
= 20 kg 10 mg/kg = 200 mg/24 hrs (answer)
CHILD'S DOSE
1-25. PEDIATRIC DOSE CALCULATIONS BASED ON SURFACE AREA
A newer and possibly more accurate method of pediatric dose calculation is
based on body surface area. Although this method is not as widely used or accepted as
calculations based on body weight, most if not all drugs may have their dosage
expressed per square meter of body surface area (m). This method of relating the
surface area of individuals to dosage is simplified using a surface area nomogram in
dose calculations (figure 1-1).
CHILD'S DOSE = surface area of child (m) dose per m.
MD0913
1-27