IV Infusion Rates and Manual Control
Calculated from a doctor’s orders, infusion flow rate is usually expressed as the total volume of IV solution infused over a prescribed interval or as the total volume given in milliliters per hour. Many devices can regulate the flow of IV solution, including clamps, the flow regulator (or rate minder), and the volumetric pump. (See Using IV clamps.)
When regulated by a clamp, flow rate is usually measured in drops per minute; by a volumetric pump, in milliliters per hour. The flow regulator can be set to deliver the desired amount of solution, also in milliliters per hour. Less accurate than infusion pumps, flow regulators are most reliable when used with inactive adult patients. With any device, flow rate can be easily monitored by using a time tape, which indicates the prescribed solution level at hourly intervals. (See “IV catheter maintenance,” page 431.)
Equipment
IV solution ▪ IV administration set with clamp ▪ watch with second hand ▪ drip rate chart, as necessary.
Standard macrodrip sets deliver from 10 to 20 drops/mL, depending on the manufacturer; microdrip sets, 60 drops/mL; and blood transfusion sets, 10 drops/mL. A commercially available adapter can convert a macrodrip set to a microdrip system.
Implementation
Verify the doctor’s order for the prescribed flow rate.1
Gather the equipment.
Confirm the patient’s identity using at least two patient identifiers according to your facility’s policy.5
Attach the administration set to the IV solution and prime the tubing. (See “IV therapy preparation,” page 443.) Trace the tubing from the patient to its point of origin to make sure you’ve connected it to the proper port before beginning the infusion.6
The flow rate requires close monitoring and correction because such factors as venous spasm, venous pressure changes, patient movement or manipulation of the clamp, and bent or kinked tubing can cause the rate to vary markedly.
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