Discussion

First Dosage Critical

Jan 13, 201115 yr

Ok so in 2weeks we have a first dosage calculation critical. We have to make an 80% and we get 2 chances to pass. I was wondering if any of you have any advice or what all was on your first dosage test. I'm going to study my butt off!!!

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Jan 13, 201115 yr

Our first dose calc was pretty basic.

Properties of numbers, especially fractions (i.e. dividing is the same as multiplying by the reciprocal). Metric and English/Household units of measure for distance, weight and volume.

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Jan 13, 201115 yr

Ratio/proportion Desired over have...

Is this your first semester? Meaning, is this dosage exam on information that you have just been taught, or is it based on calculations that you have been doing from a previous semseter. Most math in nursing is going to be based on a few specific formulas. There are some basic rules. You need to know how to convert. So, you will need to know how many mcg in a mg, how man mg in a Gm, how many ml in an oz, how many gtt in a ml, how to convert lbs to kg's, etc. That is a big part of the battle.

Next you will simply need to know how to plug into a formula. ex. Dr. orders 800 units/hr IV available: Heparin 25,000 units in 500ml D5w. Calculate ml/hr

desired over have: desired: 800 units

25,000 units X 500ml = 16ml/hr

You should be fine. Just do some practice questions, and you should be fine. If it makes you feel any better I am in the same boat. We will have a dosage exam in a couple of weeks, and we have to pass with 100% accuracy.:) Good luck! You will do fine!:):):)

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