Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 23, 2026

A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings
Published on: November 9, 2016
Mathematical and drug calculation abilities of paramedic students
Kathryn Eastwood1, Malcolm J Boyle, Brett Williams
1Monash University, Department of Community Emergency Health and Paramedic Practice, Frankston 3199, Victoria, Australia. kathryn.eastwood@monash.edu
Aim:
The objective of this study was to determine if undergraduate paramedics could accurately perform common drug calculations and basic mathematical computations normally required in the workplace.
Method:
A descriptive paper-based questionnaire collecting demographical data, student attitudes regarding their drug calculation performance, and answers to a series of basic mathematical and drug calculation questions was administered to undergraduate paramedic students.
Results:
The mean score was 39.5% with only 3.3% of students (n=3) scoring greater than 90%, and 63% (n=58) scoring 50% or less. Conceptual errors made up 48.5%, arithmetical 31.1% and computational 17.4%.
Conclusion:
This study suggests undergraduate paramedics have deficiencies in performing accurate calculations with conceptual errors indicating a fundamental lack of mathematical understanding.
Related Concept Videos
Fundamental Mathematical Principles in Pharmacokinetics: Mathematical Expressions and Units
One significant application of mathematics in pharmacokinetics is the characterization of drug distribution through the volume of distribution...
Fundamental Mathematical Principles in Pharmacokinetics: Calculus and Graphs
On the other hand, integral calculus focuses on...
Dosage Regimens: Partial Pharmacokinetic Parameters
Dosage Regimen Designs: Nomograms and Tabulations
Drug Accumulation During Multiple Dosing: Repetitive IV Injections
Determination of Multiple Dosing Parameters: Loading and Maintenance Doses

