This IV drip rate calculator estimates the intravenous flow rate of fluids infused; in such as way to help you ensure that the fluid ordered will be given at the prescribed rate, neither too fast nor too slow. There is in depth information about the equation employed right after the tool.

Volume to be given:*
Time:*
Drop factor:*

How does this IV drip rate calculator work?

In case a provider orders an intravenous fluid infusion, this health application can help you ensure that the fluid administrated is given at the prescribed rate, by considering the following aspects:

- Volume to be given in ml.

- Time expressed either in minutes or hours.

- Drop factor in gtts/ml.

The algorithm of this IV drip rate calculator applies the flow rate formulas explained below:

-If the time is expressed in minutes then the drip rate will be:

IV Drip rate  = ( Volume to be given in ml * Drop factor in gtts/min)/Time in minutes

-In case the time is specified in hours then the flow rate will be:

IV Drip rate  = ( Volume to be given in ml * Drop factor in gtts/min)/(Time in hours * 60)

Example of how to calculate IV drip rate

Let’s assume that a volume of 1500 ml IV Saline is administrated over 12 hours by a drop factor of 16 drops / ml. How many drops per minute should be ordered?

IV Drip rate = (1500 ml * 16 gtts/ml) / (12 hours * 60) = 33 gtts per minute.

Considering that intravenous fluid,be it a certain substance of just glucose, needs to be given at a specific rate, this has been decided to be measured in ml/hour or drops per min. But when it comes to adjusting the flow rate of perfusion, the drops per minute rate is used.
 
Drip sets are as follows:
60 gtts/ml minidrip drip set
10 gtts/ml regular drip set
15 gtts/ml regular drip set
20 gtts/ml regular drip set
 
The burette contains either a needle or a plastic dropper that ensures the right number of drops. Common drop factors are 10 drops/ml for blood sets, 15 drops/ml or 60 drops/ml.

04 May, 2015