<p> Aim and intended learning outcomes </p> <p>People do not become nurses to practise maths, but most nurses have to make various calculations each shift, often for the giving of drugs. This article aims to help nurses to develop skills in solving the various types of mathematical problems encountered in clinical practice. After reading this article you should be able to:</p> ■ <p>Understand the principles of common mathematical calculations</p> ■ <p>Successfully complete the calculations in the assessment</p> ■ <p>Solve similar mathematical problems in practice Apply mathematical principles to other calculations</p> ■ <p>Understand the implications of numeracy skills for safe professional practice.</p>