Look at the Answer Key in the back of this textbook for all the problems in Chapter 22. Look specifically at the infusion rates in mL/h (and gtt/min), and consider, based on these values, what kinds of range of infusion rates seem typical for adults. (Remember when looking at infusion rates in gtt/min to consider which size tubing was used.) Then consider the following infusion rates: which of these rates seem high enough or low enough that you should consider checking them for correctness? Explain your choices.
5
mL
h
200
mL
h
67
mL
h
300
mL
h
167
mL
h
25
mL
h
105
mL
h
Which of the above rates seem too large for a small child (for example, one that weighs about 10 kg)? (to answer this question, you may want to consult last week's lecture again) Explain your choices.
You have been given an order to give a medication at a rate of 100
to a healthy adult.
gtt
min
The tubing you are to use to give this IV infustion is microdrip tubing. Given the circumstances, does this flow rate seem unusually high or low? Why or why not? (hint: consider your answers to question 1)
Suppose that instead you are to use macrodrip tubing. Now that the circumstances have changed, does this flow rate seem unusually high or low? Why or why not?
True or False? Explain your choice.: "An IV flow rate of 85
is commonly used for medications given to adults, so if you have a drug order stating that a patient should receive 85
mL
h
,
as long as the patient is an adult, you don't need to question it."
mL
h