Preparing for the NMC CBT Part A – Numeracy is a critical step for every internationally educated nurse or midwife aiming to work in the UK. This section tests your ability to apply basic but vital mathematical skills in real-life clinical settings.
While many candidates underestimate its importance, mastering numeracy ensures accurate medication administration, safe patient care, and clinical efficiency.
Let’s explore what to expect and the six key topics you need to focus on for success.
What to Expect in the NMC CBT Numeracy Test
Before diving into the topics, here’s a quick breakdown of how Part A – Numeracy is structured:
- 15 multiple-choice questions
- 30-minute time limit
- Each question is worth 1 mark
- Calculator is allowed
- All questions are set in a healthcare context (nursing, midwifery, or nursing associate)
1. Measuring the Correct Dosage
One of the most critical numeracy skills is calculating accurate medication doses. Even a small miscalculation can lead to dangerous underdosing or overdosing.
You may be asked to:
- Interpret medication labels
- Read syringe diagrams
- Calculate doses based on patient weight, prescription strength, or available stock
👉 Tip: Practice problems involving ratios, proportions, and unit conversions to build speed and accuracy.
2. Mastering Metric Unit Conversions
The NHS uses metric units for all measurements — including weight, volume, and length. You must confidently convert between:
- Milligrams (mg)
- Grams (g)
- Micrograms (mcg)
- Millilitres (ml)
- Litres (L)
💡 Example: Convert 1000 ml to 1 L, or 500 mg to 0.5 g.
These conversions are often simple but must be done quickly and correctly under exam pressure.
3. Calculating Oral Medications
Oral medication questions typically involve:
- Tablets
- Liquids
- Suspensions
You’ll calculate how many units (e.g., tablets or ml) are required based on the prescribed dose and available strength.
🧠 Example:
If a patient is prescribed 250 mg and you have 125 mg tablets, how many should you give?
This type of calculation appears frequently, so practice is key.
4. Injections and Intramuscular Doses
Questions may ask you to work with:
- Vials
- Ampoules
- Syringes
You might need to calculate the volume needed for a certain drug concentration.
💉 Example:
If a vial contains 1g of medication in 2 ml, how much will you draw up for a 500 mg dose?
These require an understanding of safe injection practices as well as basic math.
5. IV Infusions & Fluid Rates
Intravenous (IV) therapy questions test your ability to:
- Calculate ml/hour or drops/minute
- Adjust infusion times and drug concentrations
Because IV errors can result in serious patient harm, it’s essential to understand:
- How to interpret infusion charts
- How to use drop factors and prescription rates correctly
6. Monitoring Fluid Balance
You’ll also be tested on your ability to interpret fluid balance charts, tracking:
- Total fluid input
- Total output
- Deficits or excesses over 24-hour periods
This reflects real nursing scenarios where you need to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance for your patients.
Why Numeracy Matters in Nursing
The numeracy section of the NMC CBT might seem simple at first glance, but it plays a vital role in clinical safety. Every nurse must be confident in calculating correct dosages, monitoring infusions, and converting units quickly in real time.
By focusing on the six key areas above and using consistent practice and review, you can increase your speed, boost your confidence, and pass this section with ease.
Get Expert Help with Your CBT Preparation
At Fortuwest International Training and Education, we specialize in helping nurses just like you succeed in their NMC CBT journey.
🎯 Our training programs cover:
- Full CBT syllabus (Numeracy & Clinical)
- Mock tests and real-exam simulations
- Personalized coaching and study plans
Call Now to Start Your Preparation!
📞 Contact Fortuwest Today:
+44 7778 077173
+44 7426 995777
📧 Email: wecare@fortuwestinternational.co.uk
📍 Visit us: 70, Cove Road, Farnborough, GU14 0EN
