Another dosage calculation problem

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Specializes in Medicine.

I was able to solve my last dosage calculation problem thanks to the people that helped me, but I do need help with one more please!

An IV medication is to be given at 10mcg/kg/min. The patient weighs 440lbs. The IV is labeled 500mg/1000ml 0.45% NaCl. The drop factor is 60 gtt/ml. Calculate the ml/hr to set the IV pump for this patient.

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Specializes in home health, dialysis, others.

If you have a pump, disregard the 'drop factor' info - that is only necessary if you are going to actually count the drops. Change your weight to kg. Do your math.

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I got 240ml/hr. I think it's right, but not too sure. I converted the 440lbs into kgs=200kg, then I multiplied that into the 10mcgs=2000mcg/min, then I converted the mcgs into mgs=2mg/min. Then I did the math. 1000ml/500mg x 2mg/min x 60min/1 hr = 240

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yes, disregard the ggt factor, and look VERY CLOSELY at the units of measure. That tripped me up at first.....you will need to remember your equivalencies.

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Specializes in Medicine.

I got 240ml/hr too, and I wasn't too sure, but now I am.

Thanks everyone!!!

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