Calculation of Drug Dosages

Comprehensive Overview of "Calculation of Drug Dosages" by Sheila J. Ogden and Linda Fluharty

Key Themes

1. Dosage Calculation Methods: The book focuses on mastering the three major methods of dosage calculation: ratio and proportion, formula, and dimensional analysis[1][3].
2. Mathematical Review: It includes an extensive review of basic math skills essential for accurate drug dosage calculations, helping readers identify their strengths and weaknesses[1][2].
3. Practice Problems and Worksheets: The book is designed with practice problems, worksheets, and practice tests to help nursing students gain confidence in making drug calculations[1][5].
4. Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) Preparation: New to this edition are NGN practice problems, preparing students for the critical thinking questions on the NGN exam[1].
5. Patient Safety and Medication Administration: The book emphasizes safety in medication administration, interpretation of physician's orders, and reading drug labels, highlighting crucial information for patient safety[5].

Plot Summary

The book is structured logically, starting with a review of mathematics (fractions, decimals, percents, ratios, and proportions) and then moving on to units and measurements for drug dosage calculations. It covers preparation for drug dosage calculations, including safety in medication administration and interpretation of physician's orders. The main body of the book focuses on the calculation of drug dosages, covering oral, parenteral, and intravenous dosages, as well as pediatric dosages. It concludes with comprehensive post-tests and a glossary[5].

Critical Reception

The book has received positive reviews for its practical approach to learning drug dosage calculations. It is praised for its logical structure, extensive math review, and comprehensive practice materials. The inclusion of NGN practice problems is particularly noted as a valuable addition for nursing students preparing for the exam[1][2]. The worksheets and practice tests are highlighted as effective tools for building confidence in drug calculations[5].

Additional Features

• Evolve Website: The book comes with 40 flashcards on the Evolve website, making it easy to study and review abbreviations, formulas, and conversions[1].
• Comprehensive Post-Test: A comprehensive post-test at the end of the book offers additional practice and measures overall understanding of the content[1].

Overall, "Calculation of Drug Dosages" by Sheila J. Ogden and Linda Fluharty is a comprehensive guide designed to help nursing students and practicing nurses master the essential skills for accurate drug dosage calculations.