Calculate HESI Exam Scores: Can You Use a Calculator?

Can You Use a Calculator on the HESI Exam?

Yes, you can use a calculator during the HESI exam. However, personal calculators are not allowed. Instead, the exam provides a built-in on-screen calculator that is available for use throughout the test. This calculator performs simple operations, suitable for basic math tasks required in the exam.

Features of the On-Screen Calculator

The on-screen calculator included in the HESI exam is designed to assist with basic calculations only. It features simple number keys and scientific function keys but lacks many complex functions. It's important to familiarize yourself with this tool, as using it can be slower than using a standard calculator. Practicing with this calculator during your exam preparation is recommended to enhance your speed and efficiency.

Guidelines for Calculator Use during HESI

During the HESI A2 exams, especially the Math section, the on-screen calculator is always available. It is crucial to utilize this tool for finding exact answers for all problems during the exam. Although it lacks complex functionalities, its availability across all questions makes it a valuable aid in achieving accurate computations.

Preparation Tips

As part of your HESI exam preparation, it is advisable to practice using the on-screen calculator provided in practice tests. This will help you get accustomed to the functionality and limitations of the calculator, ensuring efficient usage during the actual exam. Additionally, tools like Quizlet and flashcards are permitted and helpful for studying other exam sections.

Can You Use a Calculator on the HESI Exam?

Yes, you can use a calculator on the HESI exam, specifically during the Math portion. The exam provides an on-screen calculator for every question in the Math section. This feature ensures that all test-takers have equal resources available and comply with the exam's rules.

Benefits of Using the On-Screen Calculator

The on-screen calculator is tailored for the HESI exams, making it a vital tool for tackling basic and complex mathematical problems. It can help prevent careless mistakes and is advisable if you doubt your ability to solve a problem unaided.

Calculator Use Strategies

Although the on-screen calculator is a helpful tool, it may slow you down. Therefore, it's crucial to practice using this type of calculator to become efficient. Familiarize yourself with the calculator's functions and layout to enhance your speed and accuracy during the exam.

To maximize your performance, integrate the calculator in your practice sessions. This approach will help you develop a strategy for when and how to use the calculator effectively, allowing you to manage your time wisely during the actual exam.

Preparation Tips

Utilize resources such as study guides, online tutorials, and peer study groups. Mastery of the formulas used in calculations and memorization of key conversions can significantly reduce the need for frequent calculator use, thereby saving time. Always double-check calculations to ensure accuracy.

Lastly, maintaining calmness throughout the exam is crucial. Anxiety can impair your ability to think clearly and use the calculator effectively. Familiarity with the tool through practice will help reduce exam day stress and boost your overall performance.

Examples of Calculations for the HESI Exam

The Health Education Systems Inc. (HESI) exam assesses the academic and professional skills of nursing students. Understanding how to perform calculations efficiently is critical, particularly for sections like dosage and solutions. Here we explore practical examples where a calculator can be vital, emphasizing texted concepts from the HESI exam.

1. Dosage Calculations

Calculate the right medication dosage to administer. For example, if a physician prescribes 500 mg of a medication, but the available tablets are 250 mg each, you need to calculate the number of tablets. Simply use the formula (prescribed dose) / (dose per tablet) = number of tablets, resulting in 500 mg / 250 mg = 2 tablets.

2. IV Flow Rates

For IV flow rates, determining the flow rate in mL per hour when given a total volume and time period is essential. If 1000 mL of saline is prescribed over 8 hours, calculate (total volume) / (time in hours) = flow rate. Consequently, 1000 mL / 8 h = 125 mL/h.

3. Pediatric Medications

Pediatric dosages often depend on child's weight. If a drug’s dosage recommendation is 15 mg/kg and the child weighs 20 kg, the calculation (dosage per kg) * (child's weight) = total dosage gives 15 mg/kg * 20 kg = 300 mg.

4. Solution Concentrations

Finding solution concentrations involves calculating the amount of solute in a given solvent volume. For instance, prepare a 2% saline solution using 500 mL of water. Use the formula (percentage / 100) * (total solution volume) = amount of solute, resulting in 2 / 100 * 500 mL = 10 mL.

5. Conversion of Units

Convert units from metric to USA customary units. For instance, converting 3 liters to milliliters involves the formula (volume in liters) * (1000) = volume in milliliters, calculating 3 L * 1000 = 3000 mL.

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