What happens if you don't pass the med calculation test during orientation?

MrChicagoRN, RN · Aug 3, 2011

There is always anxiety about starting a new job; even more so if it involves relocating.

I took one after not working inside a hospital for 17 years. It was pretty basic. Simple meds calculations & recognizing proper routes etc.

It costs a lot to recruit, hire,and train. If someone did fail, they'd likely coach them and give them the test again. They didn't hire you to see you fail.

Rosett12 · Aug 3, 2011

That makes sense. Thank you so much for your comment.

psu_213, BSN, RN · Aug 3, 2011

This is going to depend on the policy of the hospital. I would strongly doubt that if you don't pass the med test you would be terminated on the spot. Both times I have had to take an orientation medication exam, you were given another shot at the test the next day. I can understand why you may not want to ask, but this may be the only way to put you mind at rest over this issue.

teensmom · Aug 3, 2011

they really want you to pass, they hired you so they will do everything they can to see that you pass. I wouldn't worry about it too much.

llg, PhD, RN · Aug 3, 2011

I have worked in Staff Development for about 20 years -- in several different hospitals. For each of these hospitals, the policy was pretty much the same.

People who fail the med test are given remediation (a little extra education on the topic) -- and then took another version of the test. If they fail the 2nd test... they are remediated again and given a 3rd (and final) chance. If they can't pass the 3rd test, they lose their jobs -- but I have never known anybody who failed the 3rd time. The educators work with you to help you learn the skills you need.

I've only known a couple of people who really struggled to pass the 3rd test -- and they struggled to learn everything else, too. (CPR, infection control, common procedures, etc.) and they didn't last in their jobs for very long. Most people who fail the first time buckle down and study, work with the educators, do some practice questions, and pass on their 2nd attempt.

I recommend that you ask about review/study resources prior to starting the job if you continue to be worried about it. A lot of hospitals will recommend a particular book, etc. My hospital has a handout that people are given to review on their first day of employment (to take the test at the end of the week). If an orientee asked for it ahead of time, we would be happy to send it. It wouldn't hurt to ask -- particularly if you indicate that you want to be sure to be ready for the test (as opposed to suggesting that you are terrified because you have a terrible history with making lots of medication mistakes.)

Ginger45 · Aug 3, 2011

I have recently taken two med tests since I signed up with agencies. I brushed up on my basic calculations. That was the biggest concern for me since all of our meds usually come to us precalculated. There were alot of IV calculations and gm's to mg's etc. I was provided with a drug book though. That helped alot. Good Luck. I have a girlfriend who didn't pass and they kept her.

Mrs. SnowStormRN, RN · Aug 3, 2011

I agree with everyone here. I know its hard not to worry, but try not to. Im thinking they will let you retake the test. Congrats on your new job!

Rosett12 · Aug 3, 2011

Wow, this is wonderful information! Thank you so much!

military spouse · Aug 3, 2011

I once took a med test that was more challenging than others that I had taken. Fortunately, they let us work in groups and an ICU nurse was able to figure out some of the more complicated questions :) The test included both calculations and drug information.

hiddencatRN, BSN, RN · Aug 3, 2011

The med calculation test I took as a new hire was so, so easy. I do more complicated dosage calculations on the job regularly than were in the test. I think doing a few practice problems in advance will help you feel less anxious about it.

Seas · Aug 3, 2011

In my hospital, they let you retake it and help you if you ask for it.