Neonatal Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR) Calculator
Calculated Glucose Infusion Rate:
mg/kg/min
function calculateGIR() {
var weight = parseFloat(document.getElementById('neonateWeight').value);
var concentration = parseFloat(document.getElementById('dextroseConc').value);
var rate = parseFloat(document.getElementById('infusionRate').value);
var resultDiv = document.getElementById('girResult');
var resultSpan = document.getElementById('girValue');
if (isNaN(weight) || isNaN(concentration) || isNaN(rate) || weight <= 0) {
alert("Please enter valid positive numbers for all fields.");
return;
}
// Formula: GIR (mg/kg/min) = (Rate (mL/hr) * Dextrose Conc (%)) / (6 * Weight (kg))
// Logic derivation: (mL/hr * 10mg/mL [for 1%]) / (60min * kg)
var gir = (rate * concentration) / (6 * weight);
resultSpan.innerText = gir.toFixed(2);
resultDiv.style.display = 'block';
}
Understanding Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR)
The Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR) is a critical metric in neonatal intensive care. it quantifies how many milligrams of glucose an infant receives per kilogram of body weight every minute. This calculation is essential for managing blood sugar levels in newborns, particularly preterm infants or those suffering from intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).
The GIR Formula
To calculate the GIR manually, use the following standard clinical formula:
GIR (mg/kg/min) = [Rate (mL/hr) × Dextrose Concentration (%)] / [6 × Weight (kg)]
Clinical Importance
- Prevention of Hypoglycemia: Neonates have limited glycogen stores. A steady GIR ensures the brain receives adequate energy.
- Normal Ranges: Most term neonates require a GIR of 4–6 mg/kg/min. Extremely preterm infants may require higher starting rates (up to 8 mg/kg/min).
- Titration: If a baby's blood sugar is low, the GIR is usually increased by 1–2 mg/kg/min increments.
Practical Example
Suppose a neonate weighs 2.5 kg and is receiving 10% Dextrose (D10W) at a rate of 7.5 mL/hr.
- Multiply Rate by Concentration: 7.5 × 10 = 75
- Multiply Weight by 6: 2.5 × 6 = 15
- Divide the results: 75 / 15 = 5.0 mg/kg/min
Note: This calculator is for educational purposes only. Always verify calculations with a second clinician in a medical setting.