having trouble and stress with dosage calculations

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My school has a math contract that I requires to get a 100% on the test in order to stay in the course. My math this semester is regarding dosage calculations in the pediatrics. It is my third chance to take the test next week and I have to get a 100% without an option to correct it. Getting something wrong will get me kicked out this semester. I have finally figured out how to do all the math right, but I am freaking out whenever I think about being kicked out and self doubt kicks in. How will you fellow nurses handle the stress and improve positive thinking?

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Specializes in Pedi.

What is it that you are having difficulty with? There is no room for error in pediatrics which is probably why your school has created this policy.

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PACU.

Just remember to always convert weight to kilos. All meds are calculated __mg-mcg/kg/day-dose.

__mg-mcg divided by weight=dose

If it is per day take the above dose and multiply it by how many doses in a 24 hour period and that is your dose per day.

You will always have guidelines to go by also.

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Specializes in Oncology, Ortho/trauma,.

Any test I had to take I would in the corner of the paper or on some scrap paper at the beginning of the test write my name followed by r.n. b.s.n. that way when I felt panicky about a question i would trace it over and over until my anxiety left.

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Specializes in Medical Oncology, ER.

You will definitely need to manage this stress, when you panic you lose focus and will make stupid errors that you normally would not. My advice, you KNOW your material so stop freaking yourself out. This is a downfall for any exam especially nclex. Look at the problems this way, it's not nclex style because there's only one answer for it. When i did those med-calc exams i always asked these questions:

What are they asking for?

what info do i have?

What will i convert everything to?

What can i cross out that's irrelevant?

After asking myself these things i'd make a list of the info, including most importantly what units they're asking for it in ie ml/hour or ml/24 hour period.

Cross out irrelevant info, giving you the age and dont need it? scribble it out so your eyes focus on the relevant stuff.

Check and double-check, plug in your answer and see if it works.

Breathe, relax, calm yourself, and stay focused. You will pass if you stay calm and collected. good luck!

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Specializes in LAD.

I just have to say that I have fallen in love with dimensional analysis in my pharm class this semester. After our instructor taught us, everything just clicks. It works with everything so far! Are you using this method bc if not I highly recommend it.

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I agree with pink. With dimensional analysis you can easily figure out all dosage calculations.

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