2
Instructor’s notes:
The purpose of this module is to help students develop and apply math skills in a healthcare
workplace setting. The learning activities
were designed to be incorporated throughout
multiple instructional periods as math concepts are taught in a healthcare context.
After completing the module, students should be able to:
o Interpret the essential information contained on a prescription
o Apply medical abbreviations to solve mathematical problems
o Use a formula to calculate the correct dosage of medication to fill prescriptions
Setting the stage: Provide students with background information about the typical
responsibilities of a pharmacy technician. You may want to have students use the
occupational outlook handbook, O*NET and/or other relevant websites to research the job
responsibilities, educational/training requirements, salary, etc. for this position. In addition, you
technician. (See links below)
Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Outlook Handbook:
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/
Occupational Information Network (O*NET)
http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/29-2052.00
Pharmacy Technician videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DW81Hd2YENY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_cBkSiaQD8
For Activity 1: Prescription Abbreviations Have students work individually, or in pairs, to
review and study common prescription abbreviations listed in the scenario. You may want
students to make flash cards to quiz each other on the terms. Have students complete
Worksheet 1.
For Activity 2: Decoding Prescriptions As a class, review the sample prescription and
decode the information. Using copies of Worksheet 2, have students practice translating the
information on several prescriptions. Handouts 2A, 2B, & 2C have some sample
prescriptions, or you may want to use others of your own choosing.
For Activity 3: Calculating Dosage Explain the dosage formula to students. As a class,
practice putting the information into the formula and calculating the dosage. One example is
contained in the scenario. You may want to provide additional examples for students. Have
students complete Worksheet 3A and Worksheet 3B.
Assessment: Quiz - Calculating Dosage