Calculate the correct IV drip rate in drops per minute (gtts/min) and flow rate in mL per hour. Enter the volume to be infused, infusion time, and your tubing's drop factor.
Drip Rate
31 gtts/min
Flow Rate
125.0 mL/hr
1000
mL total
125
mL/hr
8h 0m
duration
Flow Rate
125.0 mL/hr
Drip Rate
31 gtts/min
Drop Factor
15 gtts/mL
Time Between Drops
1.92s
between each drop
15 seconds
8
drops
30 seconds
16
drops
1 minute
31
drops
Tip: Count drops for 15 seconds and multiply by 4 for a quick check. Target: 8 drops per 15 seconds.
Start Now
09:43 PM
Complete
05:43 AM
Total Duration
8h 0m
Infusion Rate
125 mL/hr
Calculating the correct IV drip rate is a fundamental nursing skill. For gravity-based infusions, the drip rate in drops per minute determines how fast fluid enters the patient. For IV pumps, the rate is set in mL per hour. An incorrect rate can lead to fluid overload or under-hydration, making accurate calculation essential for patient safety.
A drop factor is the number of drops (gtts) per milliliter that an IV tubing set delivers. Macro drip sets typically have drop factors of 10, 15, or 20 gtts/mL, while micro drip sets deliver 60 gtts/mL. The drop factor is printed on the tubing package.
The formula is: Drip Rate (gtts/min) = (Volume in mL × Drop Factor) ÷ Time in minutes. For example, to infuse 1000 mL over 8 hours (480 minutes) with a drop factor of 15 gtts/mL: (1000 × 15) ÷ 480 = 31.25, rounded to 31 gtts/min.
Micro drip sets (60 gtts/mL) are used for precise, low-volume infusions such as pediatric patients, critical care drips, and KVO (keep vein open) rates. Macro drip sets (10, 15, or 20 gtts/mL) are used for larger volume infusions where precise drop counting is less critical.
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