76. A patient presents the following prescription: Prednisone 20 mg b.i.d. x 2 days 20 mg every day x 2 days 10 mg every day x 2 days 5 mg every day x 2 days How many 10 mg tablets should be dispensed to fill the prescription completely?
Answer: C
15 10 mg tablets should be dispensed to fill the prescription completely.
To determine the total number of 10 mg tablets needed, we need to analyze the prescription schedule provided. The patient starts with 20 mg twice daily for 2 days, then 20 mg daily for 2 days, followed by 10 mg daily for 2 days, which amounts to a total of 15 tablets at the 10 mg dosage.
A) 8
This option is incorrect as it underestimates the total number of 10 mg tablets required. The prescription clearly states that the patient takes 10 mg daily for 2 days, which totals 20 mg, thus necessitating more than 8 tablets.
B) 10
While this option is closer to the correct number, it still falls short. The patient requires 10 mg for 2 days, which would total 20 mg, leading to the need for 15 tablets, not just 10.
C) 15
This option is correct. The patient will take 10 mg daily for 2 days, which translates to needing 15 tablets to complete the required dosage over the specified period.
D) 20
This option is incorrect as it overestimates the requirement. The prescription specifies only 2 days at 10 mg, which means the patient needs 15 tablets, not 20.
Conclusion
The correct answer is 15 tablets, as the prescription clearly outlines the patient's dosage schedule. All other options fail to accurately account for the total number of 10 mg tablets needed for the specified duration, highlighting the importance of careful calculation in medication management.