Final answer:
The infusion rate for 1L of 0.9% normal saline over 4 hours is 250 mL/hr. Normal saline is isotonic, which is crucial to maintaining cellular function and fluid balance in the body. Isotonic solutions are typically administered to rehydrate patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the proper administration rate for an intravenous (IV) fluid infusion. In the given scenario, the order is to infuse 1 liter (1000 mL) of 0.9% normal saline over a period of 4 hours. To determine the rate at which the nurse should program the infusion pump, a simple calculation is performed: divide the total volume by the number of hours, then multiply by the drop factor (depending on the equipment used, but not provided in this scenario).
The formula to calculate the IV flow rate is as follows: (Volume in mL) ÷ (Time in hours) = Flow rate in mL/hr. Therefore, the volume of 1000 mL divided by 4 hours equals a flow rate of 250 mL/hr.
It is important to ensure that solutions like normal saline are isotonic to avoid causing cell damage or dysfunction due to the imbalance of osmotic pressures. Isotonic solutions like normal saline and lactated Ringer's are commonly given to dehydrated patients to restore fluid balance.