Drug calculations in practice  

This course explores how to calculate a range of drug dosages for adults and children, and identify common areas where medication errors can occur. Through realistic clinical scenarios and practical guidance, it supports health professionals to perform accurate dosage calculations, apply safe medicines management practices, and understand the key principles of medication safety.

  • 2 hours

    Estimated learning time

  • Case studies

    Practice-based scenarios

  • Certificate

    Awarded on completion

  • Pre & post questions

    Track your learning

Learning objectives


After studying this course you should be able to:

  • Explain different units of measurement used for medicine dosages 
  • Correctly calculate dosages for medicines in tablet and capsule form 
  • Correctly calculate dosages for medicines allowing for the weight of a patient 
  • Correctly calculate dosages for medicines that are in suspension or solution 
  • Correctly calculate the administration rate for continuous IV infusions of medicines and fluids 
  • Recognise incorrect dosages of medicines and know how to ensure patient safety 
The discussion areas within each module provide an opportunity to reflect on the content, share experiences from practice, and learn from other health professionals. Taking part in discussions can help support participatory learning as part of your CPD activity.

Course author

Kerri Wright, a nurse, psychotherapist, and author of Drug Calculations for Nurses, published by Palgrave. Updated by Martin Shepherd, formerly chief pharmacist at Chesterfield Hospital.

All Nursing Times courses are written by expert nurses and double-blind peer reviewed.

Ⓒemap. All rights reserved.

Last updated 2022
Disclaimer
Healthcare knowledge is constantly changing and we have taken reasonable care to ensure that the content included in this is accurate and up to date at the time it was created. Nursing Times courses are provided for general reference and learning purposes only: they cannot of course take account of individual circumstances and should not therefore be relied upon on their own in connection with administering medicines or providing treatment. We strongly advise users to confirm that the information provided, especially with regard to drug usage, complies with all current legislation and standards of practice. By proceeding to access this course you confirm your acceptance of, and agreement to, these terms.