A regimen for colorectal cancer calls for 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). A pharmacy technician is asked to prepare an IV bolus of 5-FU 400 mg/m². The patient's body surface area (BSA) is 1.5 m². How much 5-FU, in mg, is needed?

Rationale

600 mg of 5-fluorouracil is needed for the patient.

To calculate the required dosage of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) based on the patient's body surface area (BSA), we multiply the dosage per square meter (400 mg/m²) by the patient's BSA (1.5 m²). This results in a total of 600 mg of 5-FU needed for the IV bolus.

A (400) YOUR ANSWER

This option represents the dosage per square meter and not the total dosage required for the patient. The calculation must include the patient's body surface area for an accurate total dosage.

B (600) CORRECT

This is the correct choice, derived from multiplying the dosage of 5-FU (400 mg/m²) by the patient's BSA (1.5 m²), resulting in a total of 600 mg.

C (800) YOUR ANSWER

This figure suggests an incorrect calculation, possibly misunderstanding the application of BSA. The correct multiplication of the dosage by the patient's BSA does not yield this value.

D (1000) YOUR ANSWER

This choice also reflects a miscalculation, as it does not adhere to the dosage formula based on BSA. It exceeds the necessary amount calculated for the patient's specific BSA.

Conclusion

The required dosage of 5-fluorouracil for the patient is 600 mg, calculated by multiplying the dose per square meter by the patient's body surface area. Understanding how to apply body surface area in dosage calculations is crucial for accurate medication preparation, ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.

A regimen for colorectal cancer calls for 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). A pharmacy technician is asked to prepare an IV bolus of 5-FU 400 mg/m². The patient's body surface area (BSA) is 1.5 m². How much 5-FU, in mg, is needed?

600 mg of 5-fluorouracil is needed for the patient.

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