Why is accurate dosing important?

Accurate dosing is crucial because it directly impacts the effectiveness of the medication being administered and plays a vital role in preventing adverse effects or toxicity. When a medication is dosed correctly, it ensures that the patient receives the optimal therapeutic effect, allowing the medication to work as intended.

Inaccurate dosing can lead to either insufficient treatment, where the medication does not achieve its desired effect, or overdose situations, where the patient may experience harmful side effects or even life-threatening toxicity. Medications often have a narrow therapeutic range, meaning the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose can be very small. Therefore, ensuring the correct dosage is paramount for patient safety and treatment efficacy.