Which expression correctly converts a dose from mcg/kg/min to mcg/min when weight is W kg?

Which expression correctly converts a dose from mcg/kg/min to mcg/min when weight is W kg?

• A. Dose x Weight
• B. Dose x Weight x 60
• C. Dose x 60 / Weight
• D. Dose x Weight / 60

Answer: (D)

To convert a dose given as mcg/kg/min to a total micrograms per minute, multiply by the patient’s weight in kilograms. The rate is micrograms per kilogram per minute, so for a weight of W kg the amount per minute becomes Dose × W micrograms per minute. The factor 60 would only come into play if you were converting minutes to hours, not when you're already working in per-minute units. Dividing by 60 would reduce the amount incorrectly. For example, with a dose of 5 mcg/kg/min and a weight of 10 kg, you get 5 × 10 = 50 mcg/min. So the correct approach is to multiply by weight.

To convert a dose given as mcg/kg/min to a total micrograms per minute, multiply by the patient’s weight in kilograms. The rate is micrograms per kilogram per minute, so for a weight of W kg the amount per minute becomes Dose × W micrograms per minute. The factor 60 would only come into play if you were converting minutes to hours, not when you're already working in per-minute units. Dividing by 60 would reduce the amount incorrectly. For example, with a dose of 5 mcg/kg/min and a weight of 10 kg, you get 5 × 10 = 50 mcg/min. So the correct approach is to multiply by weight.