Evaluation of the practice of dose-rounding in paediatrics

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the rounding of prescribed drug doses for paediatric administration. Methods: A cross-sectional medication chart review was conducted at a UK paediatric hospital. Proposed administration dose volumes were calculated for prescribed doses using available manufactured liquids measured with oral and intravenous syringes. Resulting percentage deviations in doses administered were calculated. Results: Of 2031 doses observed, 524 (25.8%) required rounding. The majority of which were for children aged 1–12 months. Twenty-seven rounded doses deviated from the prescribed dose by more than 10%. Conclusion: This study highlights the impact of dose-rounding in paediatrics and the need for standardisation.