The physician orders haloperidol (Haldol) 2 mg intramuscularly for a patient who is experiencing a psychiatric crisis. Haldol 5 mg/mL is available. How many milliliters should the nurse give?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To solve the problem, use the formula:

D/H x V = X

Where:
D = desired dose (2 mg)
H = dose on hand (5 mg/mL)
V = volume to administer (unknown)
X = dose on hand (to be cross-checked)

Plugging in the values:

2 mg/5 mg/mL x V = X

X = (2 mg/5 mg/mL) x V
X = 0.4 mL

Therefore, the nurse should give 0.4 mL of haloperidol.

The Physician Orders Haloperidol (Haldol) 2 Mg Intramuscularly for a Patient