Answer :
Final answer:
Prescription dosages must adhere to key rules: being written numerically and spelled out, including frequency and duration, and being in metric units, all of which are essential for patient safety and efficacy of treatment. The correct answer is d) All of the above.
Explanation:
The question, 'What are general rules for prescription dosages?', involves understanding the best practices for prescribing medication dosages, an essential aspect of patient care to ensure safety and efficacy. The correct answer is d) All of the above, which encompasses the following best practices for prescription dosages:
- Dosages must be written in numeric form and spelled out to prevent misinterpretation. This rule addresses the risk of confusions, such as between '15' and '50' which can significantly alter the intended dose.
- Dosages should include frequency and duration, which specifies not only how often a dose should be taken but also for how long, to ensure the course of medication is clear and to avoid either under or overtreatment.
- Dosages must be in metric units, like grams or milligrams. This standardization helps prevent errors that could arise from using different measurement systems, thereby ensuring the safety and well-being of patients.
Examples of prescriptions that follow these rules include prescribing levothyroxine sodium for thyroid function, which comes in dosages ranging from 25 micrograms (µg) to 300 µg, or prescribing phenobarbital in the specific unit of milligrams (mg) to avoid overdosing.
