Enteral Feeding Pump Rate Calculator
This means you should set the feeding pump to deliver 0 mL every hour.
How to Calculate Rate for Feeding Pump
Correctly calculating the flow rate for an enteral feeding pump is a critical skill for nurses, dietitians, and caregivers. The flow rate determines the speed at which the prescribed nutrition formula is delivered to the patient. Setting the correct rate ensures the patient receives their total daily caloric and hydration requirements without experiencing complications associated with rapid infusion, such as aspiration or gastrointestinal intolerance.
Most modern feeding pumps (such as Kangaroo or Infinity pumps) require the user to input the rate in milliliters per hour (mL/hr). While some pumps also allow you to set "Volume to be Infused" (VTBI), the rate is the primary driver of the infusion speed.
The Feeding Rate Formula
To determine the correct setting for your pump, you need two pieces of information: the total volume of formula to be delivered and the total time frame for the delivery.
Flow Rate (mL/hr) = Total Volume (mL) ÷ Infusion Time (Hours)
Step-by-Step Calculation Guide
- Determine Total Volume: Identify the total amount of formula prescribed by the physician or dietitian. This is measured in milliliters (mL).
- Determine Duration: Confirm the duration over which the feeding should occur.
- Continuous Feeding: Usually runs over 24 hours.
- Cyclic Feeding: Runs for a specific block of time (e.g., 8, 12, or 16 hours), often at night.
- Divide: Divide the Volume by the Hours to get the Rate.
- Round: Most pumps accept decimals up to one place (e.g., 62.5 mL/hr), but some older pumps may require whole numbers. Always verify your specific pump's capabilities.
Real-World Calculation Examples
Example 1: Continuous 24-Hour Feeding
A patient is prescribed 1,800 mL of Jevity 1.5 formula to be delivered continuously over a full day (24 hours).
- Math: 1800 mL ÷ 24 hours = 75
- Pump Setting: 75 mL/hr
Example 2: Cyclic Night Feeding
A patient requires 1,000 mL of formula, but they wish to be disconnected from the pump during the day. The feeding is scheduled to run for 10 hours overnight.
- Math: 1000 mL ÷ 10 hours = 100
- Pump Setting: 100 mL/hr
Example 3: Complex Decimal Calculation
A pediatric prescription calls for 450 mL to be infused over 8 hours.
- Math: 450 mL ÷ 8 hours = 56.25
- Rounding: Depending on the pump, you would set this to 56.2 mL/hr or round to the nearest whole number, 56 mL/hr.
Safety Considerations
When setting the rate on a feeding pump, always double-check the following:
- Priming: Ensure the tubing is primed (filled with fluid) before connecting to the patient to prevent air embolism.
- Tolerance: If a patient experiences nausea or bloating, the rate may need to be decreased and the duration increased. Always consult a medical professional before adjusting prescribed rates.
- Flush Volume: Remember that water flushes (for hydration and medication) are separate from the formula volume and are usually administered manually or via a specific "flush" setting on the pump.