Calculate the flow rate in mL/hr. (Equipment used is programmable in whole mL/hr). Order: 2,000 mL D5W in 24 hr by infusion pump. Calculate rate in mL/hr.
A.
83 mL/hr
B.
75 mL/hr
C.
42 mL/hr
D.
60 mL/hr
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To calculate the flow rate in mL/hr for infusing 2,000 mL of D5W over 24 hours using an infusion pump, follow these steps:
- Determine the Total Volume and Time:
- Total volume to be infused: 2,000 mL
- Total infusion time: 24 hours
- Use the Flow Rate Formula: The formula to calculate the flow rate is:Flow Rate (mL/hr)=Total Volume (mL)Total Time (hours)\text{Flow Rate (mL/hr)} = \frac{\text{Total Volume (mL)}}{\text{Total Time (hours)}}Flow Rate (mL/hr)=Total Time (hours)Total Volume (mL)
- Substitute the Given Values:
- Total Volume (V) = 2,000 mL
- Total Time (T) = 24 hours
- Perform the Calculation:Flow Rate=2,00024≈83.33 mL/hr\text{Flow Rate} = \frac{2,000}{24} \approx 83.33 \text{ mL/hr}Flow Rate=242,000≈83.33 mL/hrSince infusion pumps are programmable in whole mL/hr, we round this to the nearest whole number. Thus, 83.33 mL/hr is rounded to 83 mL/hr.
- Select the Closest Option: From the given options:
- A. 83 mL/hr
- B. 75 mL/hr
- C. 42 mL/hr
- D. 60 mL/hr
Explanation: Infusion pumps are commonly used in healthcare settings to deliver precise amounts of fluid over a specified period. Calculating the flow rate is essential for ensuring that the patient receives the correct volume of medication or fluid at the intended rate. By dividing the total volume of fluid by the total infusion time, you get the rate in mL/hr, which can then be set on the pump. In this case, the flow rate of 83.33 mL/hr rounds to 83 mL/hr, which is the rate that should be programmed into the infusion pump. This ensures the patient receives the full 2,000 mL of D5W over the 24-hour period as ordered.