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Do you need to know math to become a nurse, and what is the best nurse to become?

I want to become a nurse but I've heard mixed things about the math portion involving nursing, do you need to know how to do math to become one? Of course I know how to to basic math, like elementary, school, middle, and some high school but i'm not very good at some parts involving math. If so what kind of math is needed to become a nurse? Also, what is the best nurse to become I've been looking and googling but everything is pretty much saying almost the same things.

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Doc’s Answer

Pink in nursing, math isn’t just a prerequisite for admission to a college-level program or something you pass on a test for a license. It’s a core component of your nursing education and a skill set you’ll use every day throughout your career. The safety of patients is the top priority in nursing—and math is an essential tool in accomplishing that at all levels of nursing. Math skills are critical for nurses when they perform the basic yet important task of administering medication.

RECOMMEND NURSING PREREQUISITES
• MATH — Nursing in the "real world" generally requires very basic math skills, but almost all programs require at least one college-level math class — however, most BSN programs typically require at least one course in college-level algebra, and some may also require courses in statistics, calculus, or other math-related subjects.
• ENGLISH — Even if you've been speaking it your whole life, every nursing program — and pretty much every degree or certification on the planet — requires taking at least one or two basic English courses. Being able to communicate verbally and orally with proper grammar is critical to presenting a professional image and being an effective communicator. Take at least one (but preferably two) semesters of English composition, and you should satisfy most nursing schools' English requirement.
• NATURAL SCIENCES — You won't find too many surprises in this category. Be sure to take at least one semester's worth of biology, but preferably more. You'll also likely need to take at least one semester of microbiology and possibly chemistry. To be well prepared for most program requirements, you should also complete a minimum of two semesters of anatomy and physiology.

DEGREES OF NURSING
Pink each position on the nursing spectrum has its own level of responsibility, specialization, and educational requirements. Whether you're considering starting a career in nursing or seeking to acquire more knowledge to prepare for a leadership role, here are some insights into the various opportunities that the world of nursing offers.
• LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE (LPN) — An LPN certificate or diploma prepares individuals to become a licensed practical nurse. The role requires the individual to be licensed in their same state of practice. It also entails one year of training. High schools, community colleges, trade schools, and hospital programs can offer this certificate.
• ASSOCIATE IN NURSING (ASN) — Earning an associate degree prepares individuals to perform health assessments, administer vaccines and IVs, dress wounds, and develop patient plans. It entails two years of study and leads to RN licensure in their state of practice. An associate degree can be completed as an initial step toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
• BACHELOR'S IN NURSE (BSN) — Bachelor of Science in Nursing is considered the preferred entry level to registered nurse practice by healthcare institutions and professional organizations. Earning a BSN degree typically entails four years of study and can lead to working in more complex environments, such as community and public health, acute and critical care, long-term care, and outpatient settings.

Pink consider shadowing or talking to nurses in your area, they're be are happy to talk about the different routes into nursing, how they got started, and what their experience is like.

Hope this has been helpful Pink
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Doc! Pink
Thank you comment icon Thank You Sally. Compared to many professional career paths, a career in nursing comes with more job security, job flexibility, and potential for salary growth. Good Luck Sally Doc Frick
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Heather’s Answer

I teach pharmacology (medications) for nursing and this class includes calculations in the program where I teach (some schools may have a separate medication calculation course). Either way, it will be necessary to complete math calculations as part of your nursing career. However, there is a lot of good tools available to help learn the necessary math before you graduate. A lot of the students entering the pharmacology class are fearful of the math, but they leave confident and ready to do the calculations.
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Martin’s Answer

Two fantastic queries! When it comes to mathematics, it's an indispensable tool in nursing, as it's used to determine IV rates, medication dosages, and a range of other formula-driven calculations. Thus, mastering basic math is not just a necessity, but a hurdle that anyone can overcome. Depending on your high school math background, you might already be equipped with the necessary fundamentals. However, math is an unavoidable component in all healthcare fields. We're not referring to calculus here, but basic geometry, algebra, and the capacity to manipulate formulas are essential skills. I, too, wasn't a math whiz, but I found ways to navigate through it, enabling me to handle the necessary calculations. Disregard the hearsay, commit yourself fully, seek help from a tutor if needed, and I'm confident you'll triumph over the courses.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Martin! Pink
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Hailey’s Answer

Of course some math is required in nursing, medication calculations are a daily part of nursing. However, most of what I have used on the daily, are more basic calculations, not high level math. To answer your other question about the best type of nurse to become. Nursing is great because there are so many specialties that you can go into. If you like fast paced, you could try hospital or skilled care. If you’re looking for a slower pace, you could try an office setting or home health. The best nurse to be is the best nurse you can be!
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