My introductory chemistry class is geared primarily towards students who are getting their associate’s degree in a medical field – mainly nursing. Because of this, we use drug dosage calculations for math practice when we discuss metric unit conversions.
Some students think I’m harsh when I don’t give credit for botched drug calculations. I, of course, disagree – and Abel Pharmboy’s found a news item that illustrates why:
A pharmacy erroneously made a drug 10 times more potent than intended, which killed three people who received it at an Oregon clinic, the state medical examiner said Friday.
if any of my students are reading this, take note. Stupid math mistakes are sometimes amusing, but never when someone’s life is at stake!
Great post, thanks!