If 3 tablespoons (TBSA) of milk of magnesia syrup are given to a patient. Then how many milliliters would be given to the patient?

Appeared in: SGPGI Nursing Officer-2023

Explanation

The core of this question is converting a household measurement (tablespoons) to a metric measurement (milliliters).
The standard conversion factor is 1 tablespoon (tbsp) equals 15 milliliters (mL).
The prescription is for 3 tablespoons.
Therefore, the calculation is: 3 tbsp × 15 mL/tbsp = 45 mL.

Option B: This is the volume for a single tablespoon, but the order is for three.
Option C: 10 mL is equivalent to 2 teaspoons (tsp), not 3 tablespoons. This option confuses teaspoons with tablespoons.
Option D: This volume corresponds to 4 tablespoons (4 x 15 mL = 60 mL), which is an overdose.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to Medication Dosage Calculation: Volume Conversion to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
Accurate dosage calculation is a fundamental nursing responsibility to ensure patient safety and prevent medication errors. An incorrect conversion can lead to underdosing or overdosing.
The term 'TBSA' (Total Body Surface Area) in the question is likely a typo for 'tbsp' (tablespoon). Nurses must be vigilant in clarifying ambiguous or potentially erroneous orders before administration.
Nurses should always educate patients and their families to use calibrated measuring devices (like oral syringes or medication cups) provided by the pharmacy, rather than household spoons, which are inaccurate and can lead to dosing errors.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core task: convert a given volume from one unit (tablespoons) to another (milliliters).
Recall or look up the standard conversion factor between tablespoons and milliliters. The key fact is: 1 tbsp = 15 mL.
Set up the calculation: Multiply the number of units in the order by the conversion factor.
Calculate the result: 3 (tablespoons) × 15 (mL per tablespoon) = 45 mL.
Compare your calculated answer to the given options to find the correct choice.
Double-check your math and the conversion factor to ensure accuracy, a crucial step in preventing medication errors.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 3 p. 140-142

Practise the full SGPGI Nursing Officer-2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.