Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) Practice Exam

How many mL of trace elements are needed for a 55 kg patient on a parenteral nutrition prescription calling for 0.05 mL/kg?

1. 1.25 mL

2. 1.5 mL

3. 2.25 mL

4. 2.75 mL

The correct answer is: 2.75 mL

To determine the total volume of trace elements required for a patient weighing 55 kg with a parenteral nutrition prescription of 0.05 mL per kg, you perform a simple multiplication. First, you calculate the amount needed by multiplying the patient's weight (in kg) by the prescribed dosage (in mL/kg). This can be expressed as follows: 0.05 mL/kg x 55 kg = 2.75 mL This calculation shows that the patient requires 2.75 mL of trace elements to meet the nutritional needs specified in the parenteral nutrition prescription. Hence, the correct answer reflects the actual volume that should be administered based on the dosage guidelines. This approach is fundamental in pharmacy practice, particularly when preparing parenteral nutrition formulas, to ensure that patients receive appropriate and safe dosages tailored to their specific weight and health needs.