Medication Dosage and IV Fundamentals

This unit develops core medication calculation skills and foundational IV administration practices, including conversions, dosage computations for oral and liquid forms, and preparation from ampoules and vials. It also covers aseptic technique, peripheral cannulation basics, recognition of deteriorating patients, controlled substance handling, and the application of safety checks to prepare learners for advanced IV therapy and clinical decision-making in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Calculate accurate medication dosages and quantities for oral tablets, liquid formulations, solution concentrates, and IV preparations by performing unit conversions, decimal operations, use of averages, and accounting for packaging (bundles)
• Demonstrate safe preparation and administration techniques including aseptic withdrawal from ampoules and vials, cleaning injection sites, setting up peripheral cannulae, and recognizing/initially managing common cannula problems
• Interpret prescriptions, patient information leaflets, and bedside monitoring data to identify deteriorating patients and to determine appropriate medication actions, including safe handling procedures for controlled substances (e.g., morphine) and basic transfusion requirements
• Evaluate fluid balance and IV therapy needs by analyzing body fluid concepts and affected bodily systems, calculating IV fluid volumes/flow requirements, and applying medication safety checks to prevent administration errors