The patient/client is to receive Tagamet (cimetidine) 0.8 g po three times a day. Each tablet contains 0.4 g. How many tablets would the patient/client receive for each dose?
A) 2
B) 3
C) 4
D) 5

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When solving any problem, first check that the order and the supply are in the same weight measure. For this problem, no equivalent is necessary. Estimate the amount to give. Formula Method: 0.8 g/0.4 g * 1 tablet = 2 tablets. Proportion (Ratios): 1 tablet : 0.4 g :: x tablets : 0.8 g; 0.4x = 0.8/0.4 = 8/4 = 2 tablets. Proportion (Fractions): 1 tablet/0.4 g = x tablets/0.8 g; 0.4x = 0.8/0.4 = 8/4 = 2 tablets. Dimensional Analysis: 1 tablet/0.4 g * 0.8 g = 1 tablet *0.8/0.4 = 8/4 = 2 tablets. When the numerator and denominator are decimals, add zeros to each decimal to make the number of decimal places the same in both. Then move the decimal point the same number of spaces to the right in both decimals (one space in this example). Then clear the decimal point. Therefore, 0.8 g = 8 g and 0.4 g = 4 g. It is suggested that the decimal points be moved prior to setting up the problem to reduce calculation errors.

The Patient/client Is to Receive Tagamet (Cimetidine) 0