1. Reconstitution of Medications
Chapter 14
Reconstitution of Medications
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2. Lesson 14.1 Reconstitution of Medications
Calculating drug dosage problems that first require reconstitution of a powdered drug into a liquid form
Using dimensional analysis, proportions, or formula to solve problems involving drugs measured in unit dosages
Copyright © 2020 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

3. Powder Reconstitution (1 of 2)
Required when medication is unstable over long periods of time in its liquid form.
Must be performed before administration using a sterile diluent.
Read information and directions on drug label carefully.
Identify the type of diluent, amount of diluent, and route of administration.
Note the drug strength or concentration after reconstitution.
What are some common sterile diluents?
Common sterile diluents include water, normal saline solution, and 5% dextrose solution.
What should you do if no directions are available with the medication?
Consult the Physicians’ Desk Reference (PDR), hospital drug formulary, pharmacology text, or hospital pharmacy.
Copyright © 2020 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

5. Powder Reconstitution (2 of 2)
Note the length of time that medication is usable after reconstitution.
Note the directions for storage of reconstituted medication.
Place on drug label after reconstituting:
Your initials
Date and time of preparation
Date and time of expiration
Will the total reconstitution amount always be equal to the amount of diluent added?
No, it will not. Sometimes the total reconstituted amount can be greater than the amount of diluent added.
Copyright © 2020 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

6. Mix-O-Vial
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7. Penicillin May be administered orally or parenterally.
Nurse must confer with patient regarding allergies.
Observe patient for signs of allergic reaction.
Copyright © 2020 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

8. Calculating Dosages Reconstitute medication.
Solve dosage problems using dimensional analysis, proportion method, or alternate formula method.
The known strength is determined by amount of diluent added to the medication.
Copyright © 2020 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.