Understanding the Sum of a Number and 800

Are you prepping for the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam and scratching your head over some basic algebra? Not to worry! Understanding how to express phrases mathematically is a key skill you'll need. So, let’s break it down in a way that's easy to digest.

When someone says, "the sum of a number and 800", what do you think that means? The term “sum” here is our cue — it’s a fancy way of saying “add.” If you want to express this situation mathematically, the variable “p” usually represents your mystery number. So, the expression you’re looking for is simply p + 800.

Here’s a quick run-through of the answer choices:

• A. p - 800: This option indicates subtraction—definitely not what we’re after!
• B. p + 800: Bingo! Adding the variable p to 800 perfectly matches our phrase.
• C. 800p: This suggests multiplication, which isn’t what we need here.
• D. 800/p: Ah, division. Not exactly what you want when summing.

So, there you have it! The correct expression that represents our scenario is indeed p + 800. It captures the operation we're addressing.

But why is understanding this so important, especially as you gear up for a nursing entrance exam? Well, mathematics might seem daunting at first glance, but think of it as a language. Just like you wouldn’t want to misinterpret a medicine dosage due to miscalculating numbers, being clear in mathematical expressions can be just as critical, whether you're calculating dosages or interpreting lab results.

Now, you might find yourself wondering—how does this fit into the bigger picture of nursing education? Well, math is an essential tool in nursing. It’s not just about medical jargon; knowing how to handle numbers confidently can help you provide better patient care. From calculating IV drip rates to understanding basic stats about health metrics, a clear grasp of foundational math will serve you well throughout your nursing career.

When you're taking the Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam, you'll want to be comfortable with these kinds of expressions, as they pop up more often than you might think. Trust me, it’s all about practice and repetition. So whether it's working through algebra or brushing up on your dosage calculations, consistency is key.

Remember, every little bit of algebra you master today is just another stepping stone toward becoming the nurse you aspire to be. So, as you study, don’t hesitate to loop back to these fundamental concepts—they might just save the day (or your patient’s life) down the line!

In short, when you see a phrase like "the sum of a number and 800," just think p + 800! Keeping these fundamental concepts fresh in your mind can make all the difference on exam day. You’ve got this!