Basic Calculations for Medical Assistants

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to basic calculations and measurements in medical assisting.

Metric System

The primary system of measurement in medicine based on multiples of 10, including units like grams, liters, and meters.

Gram (g)

A unit of mass or weight in the metric system.

Liter (l)

A unit of volume in the metric system, commonly used for liquids.

Meter (m)

A unit of length in the metric system.

Household Measurement

Measurements typically used at home, such as teaspoon and tablespoon.

Fraction

A numerical quantity that is not a whole number, representing a part of a whole.

Improper Fraction

A fraction where the numerator is larger than the denominator.

Mixed Fraction

A fraction that includes both a whole number and a fractional part.

Percentage

A number or ratio expressed as a fraction of 100.

Ratio

A comparison of two numbers or quantities, often expressed as a fraction.

Proportion

An equation that states that two ratios are equivalent.

Dosage Calculation

The process of determining how much medication a patient should receive.

Conversion Factor

A numerical factor used to multiply or divide a quantity when converting from one unit of measurement to another.

Equivalence

The relationship between two units of measurement that are equal to each other.

Abbreviations

Shortened forms of words or phrases used in medication dosages and calculations.

Apothecary System

An older system of medication measurement that includes units such as grains and fluid ounces.