IV Flow Rate - mL Rate Questions

Given a certain amount of liquid and a time period, what is the necessary flow rate in mL/hr? Measurement used when IV regulated electronically by infusion pump.

Formula:

Volume (mL) Time (hr)

=  Y (Flow Rate in mL/hr)

Example: Infuse 250 mL over the next 120 minutes by infusion pump.

Volume (mL) Time (hr)

=  Y (Flow Rate in mL/hr)

Convert 120 minutes to hours.

• min → hr    ( ÷ by 60 )
• 120 min ÷ 60 = 2 hr

250 mL 2 hr

=  125 mL/hr

Example: Ordered 1000 mL D5W IV to infuse in 10 hours by infusion pump.

Volume (mL) Time (hr)

=  Y (Flow Rate in mL/hr)

1000 mL 10 hr

=  100 mL/hr

• Continue (Go to IV Flow Rate - Drop Rate Questions)