IV Flow Rate Calculator
Calculate intravenous flow rates for safe IV therapy administration
Calculate IV Flow Rate
Total volume of IV fluid to be infused
Duration over which to administer the infusion
Flow Rate Results
Formula used: Flow Rate = Volume ÷ Time
Calculation: Enter values to see calculation
Example Calculation
Scenario: 500 mL normal saline over 2 hours with 20 gtts/mL tubing
Pump Setting: 500 mL ÷ 2 hours = 250 mL/hour
Gravity Drip: (20 × 500) ÷ 120 min = 83 drops/minute
Flow Rate Guidelines
Maintenance Fluids
20-150 mL/hour
Typical for hydration therapy
Medication Infusion
10-100 mL/hour
Antibiotics, pain medications
Blood Products
50-200 mL/hour
Start slow, monitor closely
Pediatric Rates
5-50 mL/hour
Weight-based calculations
Drop Factor Reference
Safety Tips
Use infusion pumps for critical medications
Double-check calculations with colleagues
Monitor patient response during infusion
Verify drop factor on tubing package
Understanding IV Flow Rate Calculations
What is IV Flow Rate?
IV flow rate determines how fast intravenous fluids or medications are administered to a patient. It can be measured in volume per time (mL/hour) for pumps or drops per minute for gravity systems.
Two Calculation Methods
- •Infusion Pump: Electronic control (mL/hour)
- •Gravity Drip: Manual control (drops/minute)
The Formulas
Pump Mode: Flow Rate = Volume ÷ Time
Gravity Mode: Drops/min = (Drop Factor × Volume) ÷ Time
Clinical Applications
- • Medication administration
- • Fluid resuscitation
- • Maintenance hydration
- • Blood product transfusion
- • Parenteral nutrition
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational and reference purposes only. It should not replace professional medical judgment, clinical protocols, or institutional policies.
Healthcare providers must:
- Verify all calculations independently before administration
- Use appropriate infusion devices for critical medications
- Monitor patients continuously during IV therapy
- Follow institutional protocols and drug-specific guidelines
- Consider patient-specific factors and contraindications
Always consult with a physician or qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.