The dextrose rate calculation determines the amount of dextrose a patient receives intravenously. Here's how to calculate it, based on information provided:
To calculate the dextrose rate, you'll need to determine the desired concentration, the concentration of the undiluted solution, and the total volume of the IV fluid. The formula, according to the reference, is:
*(Desired % solution / % solution of undiluted injection) Volume of fluid in drip bag (ml)**
Here's a breakdown with an example:
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Determine the desired % solution: This is the concentration of dextrose you want in the final IV fluid. For example, you might want a 5% dextrose solution.
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Determine the % solution of the undiluted injection: Dextrose injections are often available in a 50% concentration.
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Determine the volume of fluid in the drip bag: This is the total volume of the IV bag, usually measured in milliliters (ml). Let's say you have a 1000 ml bag.
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Apply the formula: (5% / 50%) 1000 ml = 0.1 1000 ml = 100 ml
This calculation tells you how much of the concentrated dextrose solution you need to add to achieve the desired concentration in the IV bag. In this example, you'd need 100 ml of the 50% dextrose solution to make a 1000 ml bag of 5% dextrose solution. The remainder (900ml) would typically be a solution like sterile water or saline.
Here's the information in table format for easier understanding:
| Step | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Desired % Solution | The target dextrose concentration in the IV fluid. | 5% |
| 2. Undiluted % Solution | The dextrose concentration of the stock solution you're using to dilute. | 50% |
| 3. Volume (ml) | The total volume of the IV bag. | 1000 ml |
| 4. Calculation | (Desired % / Undiluted %) * Volume | (5% / 50%) * 1000 ml = 100ml |
