Information requested for med calculations, Please

Nursing Students Student Assist

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Hello everyone,

I am trying to prepare myself for an upcoming LPN course. I was recently accepted into the program. So I thought the best advantage I could give myself would be to enter as prepared as possible.

I have read many of the posts here and I have a question regarding the dosage calculations used, exactly how many formulas are there?

For example, there is the Metric conversion, Dimensional Analysis formula, Ratio & Proportion formula, the Basic Formula, the Fractional Equation, Intravenous Flow Rate formula, and Continuous Infusions formula. These are some of the formulas that I have found. I realize that I have not found them all.

My question is where could I find all of the formulas used to calculate dosages and how many methods are there?

I also ordered a book online entitled, Math for Meds. Is this a good book to get an overview of the various formulas?

Any comments and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Specializes in surgical, neuro, education.

Different programs teach math for meds differently. I would concentrate on basic math skills and simple algebra. I have taught in 4 different LPN programs and math has always been extra hard for students. Therefore most instructors will go slowly to get you up to par. At this point--the book Math for meds is very good. Don't let it overwhelm you--good luck.

Thank you for the prompt response to my post and your well wishes. That's what I love so much about this site. It's not the math that concerns me, I have already prepared for that, I took a University Math Course. lol. I am very pleased to see that you think the book I ordered is a good one. I believe it focuses on the Ratio Proportion forumla. At least that's what I gathered from peeking inside the book. lol. I will be honest all the different formulas seem confusing. Do you have any other suggestions on what other topics I could do now to prepare myself? For example, A & P? or Pharmacology? As well as other books that I can purchase that would help me?

Thanks;)

Specializes in med/surg, telemetry, IV therapy, mgmt.
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbninquiry.asp?userid=ti5tl1qbtv&isbn=1401878016&txt=y&itm=1 - this site has information on the book dimensional analysis for meds by anna curren. the current cost is about $50. this book was recommended by another person who is a member of these forums. i have not looked at this textbook myself, but the poster stated that "it takes you back to simple math, then helps you step-by-step work through all dosage calculation problems (i.e., i.v., peds, oral, syringe, etc.) ".

I recommend Dosage Calculations 7th edition by Gloria D. Pickar. It is an excellent book.

Specializes in O.R., Chronic Pain.

I would have to agree. The Dosage Calculations by Pickar is really helpful. I have 1 semester left in my program and this is the book that we use.

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