Convert pounds to kilograms
Use kg before every mg/kg calculation.
Nursing dosage calculations practice
Pediatric dosage calculations practice for nursing students
Learn the med-math loop from scratch: kg conversion, mg/kg dose, safe range, concentration math, and mL per dose. Work it manually first, then use PedsCalc to check your setup.
Identify the dose basis
Confirm whether the order is mg/kg per dose or mg/kg per day.
Calculate the mg dose
Multiply weight in kg by the ordered mg/kg amount.
Check the safe range
Compare against the allowed dose, interval, and daily maximum.
Convert mg to mL
Use the concentration on hand, then round by policy.
Worked example
A 44 lb child has a practice order for 10 mg/kg per dose. First convert 44 lb ÷ 2.2 = 20 kg. Then calculate 20 kg × 10 mg/kg = 200 mg per dose. If the concentration is 200 mg/5 mL, that equals 40 mg/mL, so 200 mg ÷ 40 mg/mL = 5 mL per dose.
Always compare the result with the medication-specific safe range, maximum dose, formulation, and local protocol before giving a medication.