Fundamentals of Nursing Q 466

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20 cc is equal to how many ml?

  

     A. 2

     B. 20

     C. 2000

     D. 20000

    

    

Correct Answer: B. 20

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One cubic centimeter is equal to one milliliter. When clinicians are prepared and know the key conversion factors, they will be less anxious about the calculation involved. This is vital to accuracy, regardless of which formula or method employed.

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Option A: Drug calculations require the use of conversion factors, for example, when converting from pounds to kilograms or liters to milliliters. Simplistic in design, this method allows clinicians to work with various units of measurement, converting factors to find the answer. These methods are useful in checking the accuracy of the other methods of calculation, thus acting as a double or triple check.

Option C: Units of measurement must match, for example, milliliters and milliliters, or one needs to convert to like units of measurement. In the example above, the ordered dose was in milligrams, and the have dose was in milligrams, both of which cancel out leaving milliliters (answer called for milliliters), so no further conversion is required.

Option D: All members of the interprofessional team are responsible for dose calculations. Physicians, nurses, and pharmacists all must be conversant in the desired overall formula. This technique is invaluable in properly treating patients.

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