Underdosing of acetaminophen by parents.
The parents of 96 young children seen in an inner-city walk-in clinic for perceived or measured "fever" were asked about their management of the symptom. Eighty-eight (92%) administered acetaminophen, and of these, 67% gave less than the usual recommended dose of 10 to 15 mg/kg per dose. Underdosing was most commonly noted in the younger, lighter patient population. Of the parents who gave an acetaminophen elixer preparation (160 mg/5 mL), 26% measured the dose with the 0.8-mL dropper intended for use with the infant drops preparation (80 mg/0.8 mL), resulting in significant underdosing of acetaminophen (2.3 +/- 1.3 mg/kg per dose). Health care professionals should specifically inquire about the details of acetaminophen administration when discussing antipyresis with parents.
Gribetz
B
B
Department of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA.
Cronley
S A
SA
D000082:Acetaminophen / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000367:Age Factors; D001835:Body Weight; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005334:Fever / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008508:Medication Errors; D010290:Parents; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors
D000082:Acetaminophen