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Infusion Rate Formula:
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The infusion rate calculation determines the flow rate of intravenous medications in milliliters per hour (ml/hr) based on the prescribed dose and medication concentration. This is essential for safe and accurate medication administration.
The calculator uses the infusion rate formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts the prescribed hourly dose into the appropriate infusion pump setting based on the available medication concentration.
Details: Precise infusion rate calculations are critical for patient safety, ensuring therapeutic drug levels while avoiding toxicity from overdosing or subtherapeutic effects from underdosing.
Tips: Enter the prescribed dose in mg/hr and the medication concentration in mg/ml. Both values must be positive numbers. Always double-check calculations for high-risk medications.
Q1: What if my concentration is in different units?
A: Convert all units to be consistent (mg/hr and mg/ml) before calculation. For example, convert mcg to mg (divide by 1000) if necessary.
Q2: How do I calculate for weight-based medications?
A: First calculate the total hourly dose (mcg/kg/min × weight in kg × 60 min ÷ 1000 = mg/hr), then use this calculator.
Q3: Should I round the infusion rate?
A: Yes, round to one decimal place for most clinical applications, but follow your institution's specific protocols.
Q4: What about medications with very low concentrations?
A: For very dilute solutions, ensure your infusion pump can accurately deliver the calculated rate, and consider using a syringe pump for low flow rates.
Q5: Is this calculator suitable for all medications?
A: This calculator works for most continuous IV infusions, but always verify with your pharmacy for specific medications that may have unique administration requirements.