A patient is receiving a secondary infusion of azithromycin 500 mg in 500 mL of normal saline (NS) to be infused over 2 hours. How many mL/hour should the nurse program the infusion pump? (Enter numerical value only.)
The correct answer and Explanation is :
To calculate the flow rate (mL/hour) for the infusion pump:
- Amount of fluid = 500 mL
- Infusion time = 2 hours
Now, apply the formula:
[
\text{Flow rate (mL/hour)} = \frac{\text{Total volume (mL)}}{\text{Time (hours)}}
]
[
\text{Flow rate} = \frac{500 \text{ mL}}{2 \text{ hours}} = 250 \text{ mL/hour}
]
Thus, the nurse should program the infusion pump to 250 mL/hour.
Explanation:
Azithromycin, an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, is commonly administered via intravenous infusion in hospitalized patients, particularly for conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, or infections in immunocompromised individuals. Intravenous infusions are often necessary to ensure that medications reach therapeutic levels quickly and effectively.
When administering an infusion, the nurse must calculate the correct flow rate to ensure the medication is delivered safely and within the prescribed time. Over-infusing could lead to rapid administration, which could increase the risk of adverse effects such as phlebitis (inflammation of the veins), gastrointestinal issues, or allergic reactions. On the other hand, under-infusing could delay therapeutic benefits, prolonging infection or leading to inadequate drug levels in the bloodstream.
In this case, azithromycin is diluted in 500 mL of normal saline (NS) to be infused over 2 hours. The total volume of 500 mL divided by the infusion time of 2 hours results in a flow rate of 250 mL/hour. This ensures the correct dose is delivered within the appropriate timeframe, maintaining patient safety and maximizing the efficacy of the treatment.
Ensuring accuracy in such calculations is critical in nursing practice, as it helps in achieving therapeutic goals without compromising patient safety.