Overview
This lecture covers the essential dosage calculation (dose cal) conversions required to pass nursing school exams and the NCLEX, emphasizing the need to memorize these conversions.
Must-Know Dose Cal Conversions
- 1 gram (g) = 1,000 milligrams (mg)
- 1 milligram (mg) = 1,000 micrograms (mcg)
- 5 milliliters (mL) = 1 teaspoon (tsp)
- 3 teaspoons (tsp) = 1 tablespoon (tbsp)
- 15 milliliters (mL) = 1 tablespoon (tbsp)
- 1 ounce (oz) = 2 tablespoons (tbsp)
- 30 milliliters (mL) = 1 ounce (oz)
- 1 milliliter (mL) = 1 cubic centimeter (cc)
- 1 liter (L) = 1,000 milliliters (mL)
- 1 cup = 8 ounces (oz)
- 1 kilogram (kg) = 2.2 pounds (lb)
- 1 kilogram (kg) = 1,000 grams (g)
- 1 grain (gr) = 65 milligrams (mg)
Common Exam Tips
- Conversions such as grain to milligrams are rarely used in practice but are commonly tested.
- Some conversions can be calculated in multiple steps using known equivalents.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Gram (g) — A metric unit of mass.
- Milligram (mg) — One thousandth of a gram.
- Microgram (mcg) — One millionth of a gram.
- Milliliter (mL) — A metric unit of volume equal to one thousandth of a liter.
- Teaspoon (tsp) — A volume measurement equal to 5 mL.
- Tablespoon (tbsp) — A volume measurement equal to 15 mL or 3 tsp.
- Ounce (oz) — A volume measurement equal to 30 mL or 2 tbsp.
- Cubic Centimeter (cc) — A volume equal to 1 mL.
- Kilogram (kg) — A metric unit of mass equal to 1,000 g.
- Grain (gr) — An old unit of mass; 1 gr = 65 mg.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Memorize all conversion factors listed above before your dose cal exam.
- Review and practice with self-quizzes to reinforce conversion knowledge.