What is the appropriate way to measure liquid medication?

Using a calibrated glass or oral syringe for measuring liquid medication is important for ensuring accuracy and precision in dosing. Calibrated equipment provides specific measurements in milliliters or other appropriate units, which reduces the risk of underdosing or overdosing a patient. This is especially critical in medications where the dose must be exact to maintain therapeutic effectiveness or avoid adverse effects.

Standard kitchen spoons, regular cups, or guessing amounts can result in significant variances in measurement. Kitchen utensils are not designed for medical accuracy, meaning they may hold different volumes and lead to incorrect dosing. Similarly, using any regular cup or guessing relies on inconsistent standards that can compromise patient safety. Therefore, utilizing calibrated tools for medication measurement is essential in pharmacy practice.