Nursing Dosage Calculation Learning Center
Learn nursing dosage calculations step by step, see worked examples, use the calculators, and practice each concept.
- 1. Learn the concept
- 2. Calculate with a tool
- 3. Practice with feedback
Start here: suggested learning path
Lessons build from foundations to IV calculations. Nothing is locked and no account is needed — open any topic in any order.
- Step 1: Dosage Calculation BasicsThe parts of every dosage problem and how to set one up before you calculate.
- Step 2: Nursing Unit ConversionsMove between metric units, pounds and kilograms, and hours and minutes.
- Step 3: Desired Over Have (D ÷ H × Q)The D ÷ H × Q formula for tablets, capsules and liquids.
- Step 4: Dimensional Analysis for Dosage CalculationsChain conversion factors so unwanted units cancel.
- Step 5: Ratio and Proportion for Dosage CalculationsCompare the known relationship to the one you need, then cross multiply.
- Step 6: Tablet and Capsule CalculationsSolid dosage forms: whole tablets, scored tablets and capsules.
- Step 7: Liquid Medication CalculationsRead a concentration correctly and calculate the mL.
- Step 8: Weight-Based Dosage CalculationsMultiply a given dose per kg by weight, converting pounds first.
- Step 9: IV Flow Rate (mL/hr)Volume ÷ time in hours = mL/hr.
- Step 10: IV Drip Rate (gtt/min)Gravity drops per minute using the tubing's drop factor.
- Step 11: Infusion TimeVolume ÷ rate, then decimal hours to hours and minutes.
Supporting lessons
Useful alongside any topic.
Educational Use & Safety
Educational content only. These lessons teach medication math using fictional values and do not determine an appropriate medication, dose, infusion rate, or treatment for an actual patient.
Educational Use & Safety