A nurse is preparing to administer 0.9% NaCl (sodium chloride) 450 mL infused over 30 min. The nurse should set the pump to deliver how many mL/hr
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To determine the correct rate at which to set the infusion pump, we use the formula:
Infusion rate (mL/hr) = Total volume (mL) ÷ Time (hr)
Step-by-step:
- Total volume = 450 mL
- Time = 30 minutes = 0.5 hours
Now plug the values into the formula:
Infusion rate = 450 mL ÷ 0.5 hr = 900 mL/hr
Correct Answer:
The nurse should set the infusion pump to 900 mL/hr.
Explanation
In clinical settings, nurses often use infusion pumps to administer intravenous fluids with precision. These devices require settings in milliliters per hour. When given a specific volume to infuse over a particular amount of time, it is important to convert time into hours before calculating the rate, since most IV pumps use hours as the standard unit for time.
In this case, the nurse is instructed to administer 450 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride over a period of 30 minutes. Since 30 minutes is half an hour, we convert it to 0.5 hours. Using the basic rate formula, total volume divided by time, we calculate: 450 divided by 0.5 which equals 900. This means the IV pump must be set to deliver 900 mL every hour to ensure that 450 mL is infused within 30 minutes.
It is essential to perform this calculation correctly. Setting the wrong rate can result in under-infusion or over-infusion, both of which can harm the patient. For instance, administering the fluid too slowly may not provide timely therapeutic effects, especially if the patient is dehydrated or needs rapid fluid replacement. Administering it too quickly may risk fluid overload, especially in patients with heart or kidney issues.
Additionally, accuracy in programming IV pumps is part of safe nursing practice. Double-checking calculations and settings helps prevent medication errors. Nurses should also monitor the patient for any signs of adverse reactions during and after the infusion. By setting the infusion pump to 900 mL/hr, the nurse ensures the prescribed dose is delivered within the intended time frame.
