IV Flow Rate Calculator (ml/hr)
Calculate precise intravenous infusion rates for medical administration.
Required Infusion Rate:
How to Calculate Flow Rate (ml/hr)
In clinical settings, calculating the flow rate in milliliters per hour (ml/hr) is essential for programming IV pumps correctly. This ensuring the patient receives the medication or fluid over the exact period prescribed by the physician.
The Basic ml/hr Formula
Flow Rate (ml/hr) = Total Volume (ml) รท Time (hours)
Step-by-Step Calculation Guide
- Identify Total Volume: This is the total amount of fluid to be infused, usually measured in milliliters (ml).
- Identify Total Time: Determine the duration of the infusion. If the time is given in minutes, convert it to hours by dividing by 60.
- Perform the Division: Divide the volume by the hours to get the ml/hr rate.
Practical Example
Prescription: Administer 500ml of Normal Saline over 4 hours.
- Volume: 500 ml
- Time: 4 hours
- Calculation: 500 / 4 = 125 ml/hr
If the time was 30 minutes, you would convert it: 30 / 60 = 0.5 hours. Then: 500 / 0.5 = 1000 ml/hr.
Important Clinical Considerations
- Always double-check calculations with a second licensed professional.
- Ensure the IV pump is calibrated and working correctly.
- Monitor the infusion site for signs of infiltration or phlebitis.
- Rounding: Most electronic pumps allow for one decimal point (e.g., 125.5 ml/hr), but always follow your facility's rounding policy.