Morphine sulfate (Duramorph) 10 mg subcutaneously has been ordered every 4 hours. The child weighs 35.5 kg. The package insert states the recommended maximum dose of morphine sulfate is 0.1 mg to 0.2 mg/kg/dose. What is the safe range for this child? Is this dose within the safe dose range?
0.1 mg X 35.5 = 3.55 mg/day
0.2 mg X 35.5 = 7.1 mg/day
The safe dosage range of Duramorph for a child weighing 35.5 to 7.1 mg/day.
10 mg is not a safe dose range for this child and you should contact the physician.