Reviewer: Carol E Agana, MNSc, RNP, APRN (University of Arkansas)
Description: This second edition presents comprehensive information for learners of medical math. It includes four methods of calculation and demonstrates a step-by-step approach on how to solve practice problems, calculate dosages of various forms of drugs, and read drug labels. It also has an additional chapter showing differences in medication administration for the pediatric patient and the older adult patient. The accompanying website presents useful basic math tutorials, online exercises, practice problems, calculation tools, and resources for safe dosing.
Purpose: The purpose of this book is primarily to teach nursing students; however, the title includes "nurses." Nurses already in practice often come across medication calculation problems they need help with so this book can also serve as a resource. An objective in the preface includes reducing medication errors and prompting patient safety. The book hopes to develop competency in dosage calculations. The objectives are worthy and, in this second edition, additional activities are added. Is the book needed? Well, not necessarily. The print version of this book is ideal because of the practice problems. Calculations and answers can be made directly in the book and saved for future reference. The accompanying website helps to meet the objectives.
Audience: The title of the book says it is for nursing professionals; however, the preface says it is directed at nursing students. I think both groups can benefit from learning, practice, and using the book as a resource. The book certainly does meet the needs of the intended audience. The authors are credible: both are professors emeriti at the same California nursing program.
Features: The title of the book is very clear, stating first that it is about calculating drug dosages. Even though this book is for nurses, I think anyone who needs to calculate medication dosages could use it, i.e., physicians, physician assistants, PharmDs, etc. The subtitle explains one of the objectives of "providing a patient-safe approach to nursing and math." So, not only is the title clear in identifying the intended audience, but it also says what is inside the book. It is an excellent and very comprehensive book.
Assessment: This is a very good book that outshines Calculate with Confidence, 7th edition, Morris (Elsevier, 2018). This book is much more comprehensive and has better online resources. I would certainly recommend this book to nursing students.
