According to Clark's Rule, how is a child's dose determined?

Clark's Rule provides a method for calculating pediatric medication dosages based on a child's weight, which is crucial in ensuring safety and efficacy. According to this rule, the child's dose is determined by taking the child's weight in pounds, dividing that by 150, and then multiplying by the adult dosage.

This calculation is based on the understanding that the average adult weighs around 150 pounds. It acknowledges that children typically weigh less than adults and thus generally require a smaller dosage of medication. By establishing a standard like 150 pounds, Clark's Rule creates a simple and effective way to adjust the adult dose based on the child's weight.

In this rule, the formula effectively allows for a proportional adjustment. For instance, if a child weighs 75 pounds, their calculation would yield half the recommended adult dose, which aligns with their smaller body size and metabolic rate.

This approach is particularly beneficial in clinical settings, allowing healthcare providers to prescribe medications safely and effectively to children based on their specific weight-related needs.