In preparing medication, what should a nurse remember about liquid medication dosages?

Liquid medication dosages are typically measured in milliliters (mL) to ensure accurate and precise administration. This measurement is crucial because liquid forms of medications can settle or separate, leading to inconsistencies in the dosage if not measured correctly. Using mL as a unit allows for better standardization and accuracy, helping to minimize medication errors. Ensuring the proper dose is fundamental, as giving too much or too little can significantly affect therapeutic outcomes and safety.

Other approaches to dosage, such as weight-based measurements, may apply to some medications but are not universally the standard for all liquid medications. Additionally, patient condition must always be taken into account when administering any medication, including liquids, as certain health statuses could contraindicate specific treatments. Lastly, all medications, including liquid ones, have established dosage limits that should be adhered to in order to prevent potential toxicity or adverse effects.