A parent brings a 5-year-old child to a clinic for a hospital follow-up appointment.The child is taking a medication at a dose equal to an adult dose.The parent reports that the medication is not producing the desired effects.The NP should:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

By a child's first birthday,the liver's metabolic capabilities are not only mature but also more vigorous than the adult liver,meaning that certain drugs may need to be given in higher doses or more often.It is prudent to obtain a serum drug level and then consider increasing the dose to achieve the desired effect.Renal function tests are not indicated.Unless the child is experiencing toxic effects,the drug does not need to be discontinued.

A Parent Brings a 5-Year-Old Child to a Clinic for a Hospital