Question

for the below exercises, for each order: identify the dose on hand, dosage unit, desired dose, or if necessary identify the conversion factor and convert to like units of measurement.
ordered: synthroid 0.05 mg po daily
on hand: synthroid 25 mcg tablets
(source: math and dosage calculations for healthcare professionals (booth, 5, isbn 1259166260) > chapter 12: methods of dosage calculations > chapter 12: homework questions)

Explanation:

Step1: Identify the dose on hand

The dose on hand is the strength of the medication available. Here, it is Synthroid 25 mcg tablets. So, Dose on hand = 25 mcg.

Step2: Identify the dosage unit

The dosage unit is the form in which the medication is given. Here, it is tablets. So, Dosage unit = 1 tablet.

Step3: Identify the desired dose

The ordered dose is Synthroid 0.05 mg po daily. First, convert the ordered dose to mcg (since the dose on hand is in mcg). Using the conversion factor 1000 mcg/1 mg.
Desired dose \(D=0.05\space mg\times\frac{1000\space mcg}{1\space mg}=50\space mcg\)

Step4: Identify the conversion factor

The conversion factor is \(1000\space mcg/1\space mg\) (used for converting mg to mcg as part of getting the desired dose in the same unit as the dose - on - hand)

Answer:

Dose on hand: 25 mcg; Dosage unit: 1 tablet; Desired dose: 50 mcg; Conversion factor: \(1000\space mcg/1\space mg\)