Tell Me: Why Do We Need To Learn Algebra?

[Jamielynn]

This may seem like a silly question, but I would really like a serious answer.

Thanks!!! :hottub:

[Night Angel]

:angryfire HEY!!!! I thought I was the only one!!!! Algebra has never been my friend. It sucks, and has hindered me from getting my RN degree.

I don't know why, but I hate math. I let math scare me many times from starting school. I struggled with it. I don't know why. I can figure out any dosage calculation if I have the meds in front of me, put it on paper and I am sunk! I always double check my math with a co worker or pharmacy though just to be sure.

[PHTLS]

this may seem like a silly question, but i would really like a serious answer.

thanks!!! :hottub:

a client is ordered 45 mg of loxapine by intramuscular injection. 50 mg in 1 ml of liquid for im injection is available. how many mls will you administer?the formula to use is:

required dose stock volume--------------------- x --------------------stock dose 1

= volume to be given

the numbers are now placed in the formula:

45 mg (required dose) x 1 ml ------------------------------------------- 50 (stock dose) x 1= 0.9 ml

and this:

celsius to fahrenheit: °c x 9/5 + 32

fahrenheit to celsius: °f - 32 x 5/9

[color=#663300]

1) convert 37°c to fahrenheit.

37°c x 9/5 + 32 = 98.6°f

2) convert 98.6°f to celcius.

98.6°f - 32 x 5/9 = 37°c

[Grindin26]

lol... I'm surprised by some of the responses. We're talking basic algebra as far as dosage calculations are concerned.

Dosage calculations will be waiting for you everyday, whether it's reconstitution, IV's etc.

Just keep practicing, and visualize the concepts. Otherwise it'll keep haunting you.

Be glad its not full on algebra, that'd warrant more of a complaint.

[tothepointeLVN, LVN]

My theory is since accurate med calculations are important but the calculations aren't as hard as a regular algebra course is they want you to have math competency above and beyond what is required since you need to be right 100% of the time.

Fellow students who did not take math before my LVN program struggled with the math and still do a year later.

Also many schools and states require math as a graduating requirement plus you NEED it for chemistry.