Final answer:
To adjust the infusion rate of heparin sodium to the new prescribed dosage, calculate the concentration of the stock solution (100 units/mL). Then, divide the prescribed dosage (1,200 units/hour) by the concentration to obtain the new rate of 12 mL/hr that the nurse should set on the infusion pump.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to adjusting the infusion rate of heparin sodium, a medication commonly used in healthcare settings. The aim of the question is to calculate the new infusion rate (in mL/hr) given the new prescribed dosage of the drug in units per hour. To solve for the infusion rate, one must use the formula Dosage ordered (units/hr) / Concentration of stock solution (units/mL) = Rate of infusion (mL/hr).
First, we need to determine the concentration of the stock solution. The 25,000 units of heparin sodium are diluted in 250 mL of solution, yielding a concentration of 100 units/mL. Next, we apply the formula using the new prescription of 1,200 units/hour. Divide 1,200 units/hour by the concentration of 100 units/mL, resulting in a new infusion rate of 12 mL/hr that a nurse should program into the infusion pump.
Therefore, the nurse should program the infusion pump to deliver 12 mL/hr to meet the healthcare provider's prescription of 1,200 units/hour of heparin sodium.