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MedTestBankDosage Calculation for Nursing

Nursing Conversion Chart: Metric, Household and Temperature

The conversion factors used in nursing math in one chart: metric mass and volume, household measures, weight, length and temperature.

Metric conversions

FromToFactor
1 kilogram (kg)grams (g)1,000 g
1 gram (g)milligrams (mg)1,000 mg
1 milligram (mg)micrograms (mcg)1,000 mcg
1 liter (L)milliliters (mL)1,000 mL
1 mLcubic centimeter1 cc (write mL, not cc)

Household and US measures

HouseholdMetricNote
1 teaspoon (tsp)5 mL
1 tablespoon (tbsp)15 mL3 tsp
1 fluid ounce (fl oz)30 mLexact value 29.57 mL
1 cup240 mL8 fl oz
1 pound (lb)0.45 kg1 kg = 2.2 lb
1 inch (in)2.54 cm

Temperature

ConversionFormulaExample
°F to °C(°F − 32) × 5 ÷ 9101.3 °F = 38.5 °C
°C to °F°C × 9 ÷ 5 + 3238.5 °C = 101.3 °F

Common temperature landmarks

°C°F
36.1 – 37.297 – 99usual adult oral range
3798.6average oral temperature
38100.4common fever threshold
39102.2
40104

Frequently asked questions

How many mg are in a gram?

1,000 mg.

How many mL are in a teaspoon?

5 mL.

Is 100.4 °F a fever?

100.4 °F (38 °C) is the most common fever threshold, but the definition depends on the age, the route and your facility's policy.