Keeping it simple

The complexity of mathematics has been pondered since the dawn time and it is considered one fundamental skills required prescribers to facilitate effective, safe practice. Williams & Davis (2016) remind us that potential for serious health consequences patients dependent on accuracy (or inaccuracy) clinician’s drug calculations. Indicator 4.6 in ‘A competency framework all prescribers’ (Royal Pharmaceutical Society, 2016) requires prescribing practitioner “Accurately completes routinely checks calculations relevant practical dosing”. However, there remains a significant amount anxiety respect numerical literacy amongst some clinicians, often characterised by negative emotions interfere with performance (Rolison, Morsanyi Peters, 2020). Opportunities maths education avoided those anxiety, thus compounding problem. Exposure embracing problem-solving should be central component prescriber’s continuous professional development, particularly if acknowledged. Royal College Nursing (2019) advocate harm will minimised are not rushed, but divided into smaller steps, using mental arithmetic, calculator, applying formula conversion tables. Try following remember Sir Isaac Newton [1643-1727] once said Truth [the answer] ever found simplicity, multiplicity confusion things. To this end, try keep simple!