Mental math very important in nursing?

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Hi,

Just wondering if doing math in head is really important? I consider myself fairly good in math(80s in calculus).I can do subtraction, addition,divide, multiplication when I write them down but when it comes to doing it in my head, I just cannot do it. Is it really an impediment in nursing school/nursing career? I tried using Khan academy but they just show videos...

Have you met someone that has a same problem as me? What should I do?

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Specializes in Prior military RN/current ICU RN..

What should you do? What you should do is make dang sure your calculations are correct. Everyone is different and I don't think anyone would give you a hard time if you wrote down calculations. I think it is appropriate rather than just "hoping" you have it right. Good luck.

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I would want my nurse, pharmacist, MD, tax preparer or anyone else doing important calculations on my behalf to use a calculator.

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I don't see why writing it down would be a problem. As far as I've seen, it's been fine in class, on tests (even NCLEX), during clinicals, while working, etc. Knowing your resources is a huge part of safe practice. I'm fine grabbing a pencil, opening a book or asking for a second opinion.

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You'll be surprised by the use of calculators outside of nursing school lab....hehehehe....it is all about getting it right and if that means me whipping out my trusty calculator by all means I whip that mug out....

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Thanks guys. What about doing vital signs, taking blood pressure? I feel like if I can't calculate on spot, I'll be embarrassed. Should I let the professor know before hand? I'll be starting the nursing program in September.

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Thanks guys. What about doing vital signs, taking blood pressure? I feel like if I can't calculate on spot, I'll be embarrassed. Should I let the professor know before hand? I'll be starting the nursing program in September.

Carry a mini calculator with you. You'll be fine.

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With BP and vs...it is basic counting....take deep breathes my friend you will be fine once the skills are taught to you! Practice makes proficient!

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With pulse, that's simple rote memory of your multiplication tables.

With BP, I picture the reading while saying it out loud and that helps me remember it until I can record it. I scribble it down if needed though.

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With pulse, that's simple rote memory of your multiplication tables.

With BP, I picture the reading while saying it out loud and that helps me remember it until I can record it. I scribble it down if needed though.

That is what I am exactly scared of! I cannot multiply in my head, it's very limited. I tried Khan Academy but it didn't really help me.
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Specializes in Acute Care Pediatrics.

I never ever rely on my mental math. I'm too paranoid. I check my math twice on the calculator in the med room. I work with pediatrics and we dose everything by weight.... so my math has to be correct.

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It is a concern. Your final calculations will be done with a calculator, or "god bless " pharmacy already done for you.

I find that a brief mental check of the numbers is valuable, tells you if something is off in the equation before you work it.

You have identified a potential problem. Discuss this with your instuctors.

Best of luck in your career:up:

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