Famotidine Administration: A Guide for Nurses
Famotidine is a medication commonly used to treat heartburn, acid reflux, and ulcers. As a nurse, it's essential to understand the proper administration of this medication, especially when it comes to calculating the dosage based on weight.
This article will guide you through the process of administering famotidine 1 mg/kg/day PO divided, ensuring safe and accurate medication delivery.
Understanding the Dosage
1 mg/kg/day PO divided means:
- 1 mg: The medication dosage per kilogram of body weight.
- kg: Kilogram, a unit of weight measurement.
- day: The total dosage is administered over 24 hours.
- PO: Oral administration, meaning the medication is taken by mouth.
- divided: The total daily dosage is divided into multiple doses throughout the day.
Step-by-Step Administration
- Obtain the patient's weight: It's crucial to have the patient's current weight in kilograms. If the weight is provided in pounds, you can convert it to kilograms by dividing the weight in pounds by 2.2.
- Calculate the total daily dosage: Multiply the patient's weight in kilograms by 1 mg. This will give you the total daily dosage of famotidine in milligrams.
- Determine the frequency of administration: The medication order will specify how many times per day the famotidine should be administered. For example, it might be "BID" (twice a day) or "TID" (three times a day).
- Calculate the individual dose: Divide the total daily dosage by the number of doses per day. This will provide you with the amount of famotidine to administer for each individual dose.
- Prepare the medication: Ensure you have the correct medication and concentration. Check the label carefully to avoid any errors.
- Administer the medication: Follow the instructions provided by the physician and adhere to any specific guidelines related to medication administration.
- Document the administration: Record the time, date, dosage, and route of administration in the patient's medical record.
Considerations
- Dosage Adjustments: The dosage may need to be adjusted based on individual patient needs and factors like age, kidney function, and liver function. Always consult with the physician or pharmacist for any dosage adjustments.
- Patient Education: Educate the patient about the purpose, dosage, and potential side effects of the medication. Encourage them to ask any questions they have about their treatment.
- Monitoring for Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as headache, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, and rash. Monitor the patient for any adverse reactions and report them to the physician promptly.
Important Note: This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance.
