Pharmacy Math, PHT 1013
Course Philosophy and Instructor Requirements
Philosophy: Essential mathematical concepts and skills used on the job are discussed in this course. Pharmacy math calculations,
conversions, measurements, and application of equations required for realistic dose and solution preparation will be discussed.
Business terms and calculations commonly found in a pharmacy setting will also be taught.
Instructor Objectives: The instructor’s teaching techniques should ensure the students are able to:
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Demonstrate the relationship between units of measurement and use their correct abbreviations.
Calculate doses related to the administration of medication utilizing various systems of measurement.
Accurately read drug labels for amount of active ingredient contained in a measured amount of medication, and calculate
the amount of medication to dispense for a specific dose.
Calculate the quantity of active ingredient in a percentage solution and solid mixture.
Calculate the amount of concentrate and diluent needed for a stock dilution compound.
Calculate age- and weight-specific drug doses or dose range when given recommended dose information.
Use a nomogram to estimate a patient’s body surface area (BSA) and use that BSA to calculate a patient-specific dose of
medication.
Calculate the amount of ingredients needed for compounded mixtures using the alligation medial method.
Calculate the amount of active ingredient in a described mixture using the alligation alternate method.
Calculate aliquot portions for dilution of compounded products.
Calculate the least weighable quantity when given the specifications of the measuring device being used.
Calculate the rate and duration of parenteral administration of medications using both volume per hour and drops per
minute.
Calculate business application needs such as percent markup, percent profit, overhead, profit, gross profit, percentage of
AWP, capitation, days’ supply of inventory, and inventory maintenance ordering with minimums and maximums.
These objectives are aligned with ASHP Goals 1, 2, 3, 9, 10, 12, and 27.
Course Teaching Requirements: The following should be adhered to by all instructors teaching this course (online and in the
traditional setting).
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While it is not necessary to cover all chapters in the textbook, the following topics must be covered (but not limited to) by
all instructors: topics-fractions, decimals, percentages, roman/Arabic numbers, significant figures, ratio/proportion, %
error, metric system and conversion, calculate dosages, conversion of household measurements, temperature conversions,
IV flow rates, pharmacy business related math . It is not necessary to cover the topics in order but in a logical sequence to
build the students understanding of course material.
The final exam must have a comprehensive component, must count for at least 25% of the course grade and must be
proctored.
Assessment Responsibilities: Instructors teaching this course (online and traditional) will be expected to participate in assessment
activities as dictated by the division chair. Further information and instructions will be given by the lead instructor during the term
that assessments are to be completed.
Advanced Technology and Allied Health Division Contact Information:
Division Chair: Keith McClanahan, 501-882-8811, mkmclanahan@asub.edu
Lead Instructor: Janet McGregor Liles, 501-207-6237, jliles@searcy.asub.edu
Online course monitor: TBA