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

AIMThe purpose of this study was to synthesize the current landscape of medication dosage calculation (MDC) education for prelicensure nursing students in the United States.BACKGROUNDThere 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.METHODAn electronic survey was emailed to prelicensure administrators of 1,620 associate, bachelor's, and master's entry programs in the United States.RESULTSSurveys were received from 210 programs. Results confirmed inconsistent methods used to teach and evaluate MDC competency.CONCLUSIONInconsistent 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.