What is a critical factor when giving medications to pediatric patients?

When administering medications to pediatric patients, dosing is primarily calculated based on the child's weight. This approach is crucial because children differ significantly from adults in terms of metabolism, body composition, and overall physiology. Using weight as a basis for determining medication dosage helps ensure that each child receives an amount appropriate for their size and developmental stage, reducing the risk of underdosing or overdosing.

For example, if a medication is intended for adult use, the dosage for a child cannot simply be scaled down based on age alone due to these physiological differences. Instead, healthcare providers must consider the specific weight of the child to calculate an accurate dosage. This practice is essential to safely and effectively treat pediatric patients, who can be more vulnerable to the effects of medications than adults.