Use of Calculators, open to all RNs

celticqueen · Dec 10, 2006

Hello to all! First off, I am new to this site and this is my first post! So this is partially to say hello and partly to ask a question to the RN's out there..
As a nursing student I have discovered theres quite a few formulas and numerical things to remember, I was wondering if use of calculators is looked down upon, or actually encouraged? Also, I was wondering if there are any useful study tips that anyone has use getting through nursing school? Cause I feel like I am drowning! Please Respond Soon!!
Thanks, Adrienne

hello Adrienne.

i think using a calculator a good idea, and i don't think that using one should be lookked down apon. i also carry a little note book in my uniform pocket with drug formulations written in there for easy reference (just in case i don't have a calculator to hand!!!!). i'm not naturally good at mathes, and i find this particularly handy.

grandee3 · Dec 10, 2006

Calculators--- Most definately

Study--- Flash cards, write an outline, study as much as you want the days before a test. The day of the test, just relax and maybe look at your outline or cards only once then put it away. (if you don't know it by then, you are not going to learn it the morning of the test)

Good luck!

lauralassie · Dec 10, 2006

Oh my gosh, don't know what I would do without mine. I work critical care ER. I usually know what a drip rate calculation will be but, I always use my calculator to check.

SoontobeAdrienneRN · Dec 10, 2006

I can't thank everyone enough for helping me! Its very comforting to know that some of the newbie to seasoned nurses find it perfectly fine in using calculators! You all have just shed a new light upon me, (lol).

And to those that responded to my question about study tips I will be definitely using those for finals and then on! You all are simply incredible, thank you soo much, everyone!!

Adrienne

mom to a PRINCESS · Dec 11, 2006

I completely agree with lauralassie. I work in critical care and use my calculator all the time. We have so many of them lying around, but everyone uses them. There is so much else it is useful for like calculating I's and O's especially when you have multiple drips, lines, chest tubes, foley, ng, etc. that you have to document every hour. You would not be able to total them all up on paper or in your head every hour along with all the other stuff you are constantly doing.