Tablets and Capsules
This short tutorial will take you through the basic formula and rules for setting up drug calculations. If solving the problems without a calculator is difficult, then you should work through the resources in Topic 2 - Fractions, Decimals and Percentages.
2. What is a drug calculation formula?
A drug calculation formula is a reliable method for setting up the medication information that you have been given. This becomes a mathematical problem which, when solved, will give you the correct dosage for your patient.
You will come across a number of different formulae, depending on the medications and delivery routes involved. You will also find that there is more than one way to set up a particular kind of calculation. Our advice on this is as follows:
FIND THE FORMULA THAT WORKS FOR YOU AND STICK WITH IT!
If you do this, then it is possible to get by with learning just 3 different formulae, providing you know and understand them well.
Reading comprehension is essential to successful drug calculations. It is vital that you are able to understand the meaning of the information given so that you can set up the formula correctly.
The following chapter will take you through the basic NHS1 formula, with clear explanations of each element, and guidelines for setting up the formula and solving it. This is a relatively straightforward calculation when applied to tablets and capsules. However, a sound understanding of the principles involved will ensure that you are just as confident to perform it when working with liquid medicines and injections.