‍(Reposted with permission from Nurse Meg RN) One of the most challenging aspects of nursing school is learning how to calculate medication dosages. From figuring out drip rates to converting units of measure, there’s a lot to keep track of. And, of course, getting even one step wrong can have serious consequences. In this blog post, you’ll find helpful advice to guide you through this essential skill. Remember, practice makes perfect, so be sure to use these tips as often as possible!

Determining the Correct Dose

Using these simple guidelines, you can accurately determine the correct dose for your patient.

• Check the contents of your intravenous (IV) bottle (drug concentration or the number of mL of fluid).
• Find out what your medicine is measured in (units/hour, mg/hour, or mcg/kg/minute) and use it to your advantage.
• If you’re using a weight-based formula, you’ll need the person’s weight in kilograms.
• Once you’ve calculated your mcg/kg/minute, divide it by your patient’s weight in kilograms to get the patient’s mcg/kg/minute value.

Universal Formula

The recommended dosage is represented by the desired amount (d) (i.e., tablet, capsule, liquid). The amount on hand (h) or the amount you “have” represents a dose or concentration that is readily accessible. Quantity (q) refers to the amount the medicine is provided.

How Do You Prepare for a Medical Calculation?

Everyone has a unique style of approaching math education. You do not need to study mathematics intensively, as this is not a requirement to pass the nursing course. However, some people learn it many times before fully comprehending it. Here are some tips if you are preparing for your drug calculation test:

• Practice, practice, practice!
• Taking a practice exam at home is a good process to prepare for the exam. If you have attempted the questions before the exam date, you can answer similar questions easily.
• During the exam, read and comprehend each question before answering them. 
• Understand the questions very well, notice the units given, and do your conversion correctly.
• Think about the final answer you would get, whether it should be greater or lesser than the given data depending on the question you are asked to solve.
• You don’t have to rely on your memory when calculating the dosage. 
• However, writing down the questions on paper is a basic idea; you can make a significant difference with this technique. In addition, you can brainstorm and detect errors using this method.
• Check the given data, which will help you know exactly where you are heading.
• The value 1 and not 1.0 should always be used when rounding numbers, regardless of whether the question is “round to the closest tenth” or “round to the nearest whole number.” 
• Hopefully, pharmaceutical errors and discrepancies will be minimized if this is observed.
• The process of converting between distinct measuring systems is necessary. 
• First, consider the units and make sure you are consistent in the calculation. Cancel out the necessary ones and leave the required ones behind. 
• For example, in practical experience, if your doctor prescribes medication in grains (gr), but you already have the medicines in milligrams (mg), you’ll have to convert the dosages (mg). This implies the conversion of the gr to mg.
• Ensure that you always have a calculator to do your calculation effectively. 
• A calculator is an absolute must if you’re taking a test that requires one.
• Double-check your calculations to verify your answer.
• Constantly cross-check your work to know if you are doing the right thing. 
• Review the parameters, the drug concentration, and the question asked to know if you are getting everything right.

Conclusion

A nurse doesn’t need a thorough understanding of mathematical principles, as it is often believed. Calculus, physics, and even geometry are not requirements for this course. You need only the necessary information to ensure safe medicine delivery, but not so little to confuse the healthcare providers. This is why you need extra time to double-check even the simplest task. There is no need to feel bad about it. Don’t be afraid to double-check that obvious half-dose on your calculator when practicing.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a pro at dosage calculation!