Revisiting the basics

Within the Consultation Domain of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (2016) A competency framework for all prescribers, indicator 4.6, states that the prescriber ‘accurately completes and routinely checks calculations relevant to prescribing and practical dosing’. Recently updated regulatory standards for prescribing dictate that numeracy and drug calculations continue to be an essential core element of non-medical prescribing programmes. These require students to enhance their existing skills and expertise in respect of the medicines they aim to prescribe, within their sphere of practice (Nursing & Midwifery Council, 2018; General Pharmaceutical Council, 2019; Health & Care Professions Council, 2019). The following questions aim to assist both qualified prescribers and those in training to attain and maintain an aptitude for safe drug calculations by revisiting the basic principles of numeracy.

Mrs Smith is awaiting discharge following an uneventful appendectomy two days ago. You are writing a discharge prescription for analgesia. You prescribe co-codamol 30/500 mg tablets, 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hourly as required. You advise Mrs Smith that no more than eight tablets should be taken in any 24-hour period.