Demonstrate how to measure a dose
Collect a container of the drug and check its expiry date. Do not use expired drugs. Count out the amount needed for the child. Close the container.
If you are giving the mother tablets you should show the mother the amount to give per dose. If needed, show her how to divide a tablet. If a tablet has to be crushed before it is given to a child, add a few drops of clean water and wait a minute or so. The water will soften the tablet and make it easier to crush. It can be crushed between two clean spoons.
If you are giving the mother syrup, you should show the mother how to measure the correct number of millilitres (ml) for one dose at home. Use the bottle cap or a common spoon, such as a spoon used to stir sugar into tea or coffee. Show her how to measure the correct dose with the spoon.
One teaspoon (tsp) equals approximately 5.0 ml (see Table 14.2 below).
Table 14.2 Estimation of syrup dosage by teaspoon.
| MILLILITRES (ml) | TEASPOONS (tsp) |
|---|---|
| 1.25 ml | ¼ tsp |
| 2.5 ml | ½ tsp |
| 5.0 ml | 1 tsp |
| 7.5 ml | 1½ tsp |
| 10.0 ml | 2 tsp |
| 15.0 ml | 3 tsp |
Adjust the above amounts based on the common spoons used in your area.
If you are giving the mother capsules, show the mother the amount to give per dose. If her child needs less than a whole vitamin A capsule (or cannot swallow a whole capsule), show the mother how to open the capsule and squirt part of its liquid into her child's mouth.