Four of the most common nursing math calculations in one tool: pediatric weight-based dosing, IV gravity drip rates, mcg/kg/min titration (think vasopressors), and powder reconstitution. Built for NCLEX prep, clinical reference, and the night before your med-math exam.
Disclaimer: Always verify calculations with a second nurse, your facility's formulary, and the prescriber's order. This tool is for education and quick-check use, not a substitute for clinical judgment.
Verify against safe-dose range before administering.
Dose = mg/kg ordered × patient weight in kg. If the medication comes in mg/mL, calculate volume to give: Volume = total dose ÷ concentration.
Rate (gtt/min) = (Total volume in mL × drop factor in gtt/mL) ÷ Total time in minutes. Drop factors: macro-drip is 10, 15, or 20 gtt/mL; micro-drip is 60 gtt/mL.
Pump rate (mL/hr) = (ordered mcg/kg/min × weight in kg × 60) ÷ concentration in mcg/mL. Used for norepinephrine, dopamine, propofol, nitroglycerin drips, and most ICU vasoactive infusions.
Final concentration (mg/mL) = total mg in vial ÷ total mL of diluent. Volume to draw up = ordered dose ÷ final concentration.
For 5 free practice problems on dosage calculations, drip rates, and pediatric math, see our pharmacology question set.
