How do you calculate the infusion rate for an IV?

To determine the infusion rate for an IV, the correct approach involves taking the total volume of the IV fluid in milliliters and dividing it by the total time in hours over which the infusion will occur. This calculation is designed to yield the flow rate in milliliters per hour, which allows healthcare professionals to set the infusion pump correctly and ensure the patient receives the appropriate dosage over the specified time period.

By using the formula of dividing total volume by total time, you effectively establish how much fluid needs to be delivered each hour, ensuring consistent and accurate administration of IV therapy. Ensuring that calculations are done correctly is crucial in maintaining therapeutic levels of medications while also preventing complications from either under or overdosing patients.