Question

Calculate the mL/hr heparin flow rate using the calculation method of your choice. (Simplify your answer completely. Express your answer to the nearest whole number.) The order is for 1,750 units/hr heparin from a solution strength of 15,000 units in 500 mL D5W. A pump is used to monitor the infusion.

Answer 1

To calculate the heparin flow rate, divide the ordered amount of heparin (1,750 units/hr) by the concentration of the solution (30 units/mL). The result is 58.33 mL/hr, which rounded to the nearest whole number is 58 mL/hr.

Step-by-step explanation:

To calculate the heparin flow rate in mL/hr, you would use the doctor's order and the strength of the heparin solution. The calculations for infusion pump settings are a part of medication administration, a common topic covered in nursing and pharmacology courses. Here's how you do it:

The doctor's order is for 1,750 units/hr. You have a solution that is 15,000 units of heparin in 500 mL of D5W. This means that every mL of the solution contains 15,000 units / 500 mL = 30 units/mL. To deliver 1,750 units/hr, you need 1,750 units/hr ÷ 30 units/mL = 58.33 mL/hr. Rounded to the nearest whole number, the pump should be set to 58 mL/hr.