skip to main content

Paediatric dose checking — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardDispensingPaediatric dose checkingGPhC CRA

A pharmacist receives a prescription for a child aged 3 months for amoxicillin 125 mg/5 mL suspension, 2.5 mL three times daily for five days for a lower respiratory tract infection. The child weighs 5.5 kg. The pharmacist checks the BNF for Children and finds the recommended dose is 30 mg/kg/day in three divided doses. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Dispense as prescribed — the dose is within the recommended range

The prescribed dose of 2.5 mL of 125 mg/5 mL gives 62.5 mg per dose (187.5 mg/day). The recommended dose of 30 mg/kg/day for a 5.5 kg child is 165 mg/day, or 55 mg three times daily. The prescribed dose is slightly above the calculated target but within an acceptable range for this indication. The pharmacist should confirm the dose is appropriate and dispense.

Reference: BNF for Children