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Do you have to be great at math to become a nurse?

Hey! I know I want to be a nurse one day. Everyone I talk to (medical students, nursing professors, nurses, etc) say that you need to be good at math. I don't fail math, but it is definitely not my strong suit. I can do it, but it might take me awhile. So, my question is, since I am not great at math, should I look into a different career that's not nursing? Or will I be able to be a nurse, even though I'm not great at math. Thanks for you help! #nursing #medicine #health #math #nursing-education

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Irene’s Answer

Although math is needed to become a nurse, it is basic arithmetic (adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing) plus some algebra. I wouldn't not go into nursing because of a weakness in math. If you know it is a difficult area for you, be prepared to spend extra time studying and practicing. Ask for additional help or get a tutor early. Don't wait until you are behind in your work or its just before exams to ask for help.Good luck.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for answering! I really appreciate it, and I will definitely take your advice. Thanks again! Angelina
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Sara’s Answer

Hi Angelina, I responded to you yesterday and forgot to add that you will need to become competent with the
metric system: kilograms grams, milagrams, etc and calculating doses, weights, etc in that system.


None of what I have described in both of my responses is impossible. If you're not feeling confident try on line resources such as Kahn Acadamy (free app) that teaches in plain terms topics of math and science. You can also try looking for other resources through your library. If you are still in HS check and see if any tutoring services are available. Check too with community resources.
Good luck.

Thank you comment icon Okay, thanks! That's good to know. I will look into Khan Academy. Thanks again for your help, I appreciate it! :) Angelina
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Sara’s Answer

HI, for a basic nursing program you have to be good enough at math to safely calculate medications and to be able to effectively read and understand lab results or other data that is comprised of numbers. You have to be able to do basic math calculations and calculate proportions.
Hope this is helpful.

Thank you comment icon Thanks for your answer! I think I should be able to do all that.........thanks for your help! Angelina
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Jared’s Answer

As stated earlier, basic arithmetic is necessary for dosage calculations. Children's Tylenol is 15mg/kg. A kg is 2.2lbs, etc. you will be allowed to use a calculator in the hospital and we do a small number of different types of calculations. You will get tons of practice with the same types of "math problems." You will be fine
Thank you comment icon Okay, I think I should be able to do that kind of math. I appreciate you answering my question! Thanks! Angelina
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