What metric units are used by a hospital or pharmacy in pre paring medicines?
In hospitals and pharmacies, metric units are universally used to ensure precision and uniformity in preparing medicines. The metric system provides a consistent and internationally recognized set of units for measuring various quantities. Here are the common metric units used in these settings:
1. Mass:
- Gram (g): Grams are the primary unit for measuring the mass/weight of solids and semisolids. For example, tablets, capsules, and powders are dispensed in grams.
- Milligram (mg): Milligrams are used to measure precise amounts, particularly for potent drugs or in cases where small dosages are required.
- Microgram (mcg): Micrograms are further subdivisions of milligrams used for exceptionally low doses or trace amounts.
2. Volume:
- Liters (L): Liters are the standard unit for measuring the volume of liquid medicines, such as syrups, liquids, and infusions.
- Milliliters (mL): Milliliters are more commonly used than liters for accurate dosing.
- Microliters (mcL): Microliters are employed for small volume measurements in specialized cases, such as for certain eye drops or injections.
3. Units:
- International Units (IU): IU is a unit specific to measuring the activity or potency of certain drugs, particularly biological substances like hormones, vaccines, and antibiotics.
- Percentage (%): Percentages are used to express concentrations in liquids, ointments, and creams.
4. Other Units:
- Meter (m): Meters can be used in anthropometric measurements related to patient conditions (e.g., measuring lengths of bandages or wound dressings).
- Celsius (°C): The Celsius scale is used to measure and document body temperature, storage conditions, and temperature-sensitive medicines.
It's essential for healthcare professionals to thoroughly understand and use these metric units accurately to ensure safe and effective medication preparation, administration, and documentation. International standards and guidelines emphasize the significance of proper unit usage to minimize errors and promote patient safety.