A National Survey of Medication Dosage Calculation Teaching Methods and Competency Criteria on Nursing Student Success: Recommendations for Nurse Educators

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

AIM The purpose of this study was to synthesize the current landscape of medication dosage calculation (MDC) education for prelicensure nursing students in the United States. BACKGROUND There is little consistency in the format of MDC education and evaluation in prelicensure nursing education, yet consequences of not passing MDC exams can affect the number of graduating nurses. Consequences can include withdrawal from the course, delayed progression of a semester or more, or dismissal from the nursing program. METHOD An electronic survey was emailed to prelicensure administrators of 1,620 associate, bachelor's, and master's entry programs in the United States. RESULTS Surveys were received from 210 programs. Results confirmed inconsistent methods used to teach and evaluate MDC competency. CONCLUSION Inconsistent teaching methods and competency criteria can affect retention and subsequent growth of the nursing workforce. Based on the characteristics associated with MDC success, recommendations are made for nurse educators.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)11-17
Number of pages7
JournalNursing education perspectives
Volume44
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2023
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Clinical Nursing Education
  • Dosage Calculation
  • High-Stakes Testing
  • Medication Administration
  • Nursing Students
  • Professional Competence

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Nursing
  • Education

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A National Survey of Medication Dosage Calculation Teaching Methods and Competency Criteria on Nursing Student Success: Recommendations for Nurse Educators'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this