32. A prescription is written for an eyedrop in each eye to be used once daily. If there are 15 drops per mL, how many days will 2.5 mL last?
Answer: B
2.5 mL will last for 12 days when using one drop in each eye once daily.
With 2.5 mL of eyedrops and a dosage of one drop per eye per day, the total number of drops available is 37.5 (2.5 mL x 15 drops/mL). Since two drops are used each day (one for each eye), the total usage duration is 12 days (37.5 drops ÷ 2 drops/day).
A) 6
This option is incorrect as it significantly underestimates the total number of drops available. If only 6 days were accounted for, it would imply a total drop count of 12, which does not align with the calculated total of 37.5 drops from 2.5 mL.
B) 12
This is the correct choice. The calculation shows that 2.5 mL provides 37.5 drops, and with a daily usage of two drops (one for each eye), this amount will last for exactly 12 days.
C) 18
Option C is incorrect. To last 18 days, the total number of drops would need to be 36. However, with only 37.5 drops available, it is impossible to sustain usage for this duration while following the prescribed dosage.
D) 36
This option is also incorrect. If the eyedrops were to last for 36 days, it would indicate a requirement of 72 drops in total, which far exceeds the available 37.5 drops from the 2.5 mL supply.
Conclusion
The correct answer is 12 days, as it accurately reflects the total number of drops available after considering the dosage for both eyes. All other options fail to align with the drop calculations based on the provided volume and dosing instructions.