Mass/Time - IV mL Rate Questions

Give an order in quantity of mass per time, determine the necessary IV flow rate in mL/hr based on the given mass per volume. These types of problems are often used in critical care nursing.

Formula:
Ordered Per HourOrd/Hr
Have
x Volume (mL)Vol (mL) = Y (Flow Rate in mL/hr)Y (mL/hr)

Example: Give patient 500 mg of Mockamine in 250 mL of D5W to infuse at 20 mg/hr. Calculate the flow rate in mL/hr.
Ordered Per HourOrd/Hr
Have
x Volume (mL)Vol (mL) = Y (Flow Rate in mL/hr)Y (mL/hr)
20 mg/hr
500 mg
x 250 mL = 10 mL/hr

Example: Samplestat at 12.5 mg in 250 mL is prescribed to be infused at a rate of 6 mcg/kg/hr in a patient who weighs 100 kg. At what flow rate in mL/hr will you set the pump?
Ordered Per HourOrd/Hr
Have
x Volume (mL)Vol (mL) = Y (Flow Rate in mL/hr)Y (mL/hr)
Weight in KgWgt (kg) x Dosage Per KgDose/kg = Y (Required Dosage)Y (Dose)
100 kg x 6 mcg/kg/hr = 600 mcg/hr
Convert 600 mcg/hr to mg/hr.
0.6 mg/hr
12.5 mg
x 250 mL = 12 mL/hr

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