Nursing calculators
Practice this skill →Calculate, review one worked example, then practice the same skill.
Weight-Based Drip
Calculate mcg/kg/min drip rates for vasopressors and weight-based infusions.
Calculation practice
Learn weight-based iv infusion
Convert a weight-based dose in mcg/kg/min to a pump rate in mL/hr.
Formula
Keep the units in the setup. Cancel them before you accept the answer.
Pump rate in mL/hr=Dose × Weight in kg × 60 min/hrConcentration in mcg/mL
Worked example
A practice bag contains 4 mg in 250 mL. The patient weighs 70 kg. Calculate the rate for 0.1 mcg/kg/min.
- 1Concentration: (4 mg × 1,000 mcg/mg) ÷ 250 mL = 16 mcg/mL.
- 2(0.1 mcg/kg/min × 70 kg × 60 min/hr) ÷ 16 mcg/mL = 26.25 mL/hr.
- 3Check that the concentration in the calculation matches the bag label.
Answer: 26.25 mL/hr
Checks before use
- Convert the drug amount from mg to mcg before you find the concentration.
- Use the weight and dosing weight required by the order or facility protocol.
- Verify the programmed pump rate with the order and the prepared concentration.
Practice this skill
Create a printable critical-care drip worksheet with worked solutions.
References
- Chapter 5: Math Calculations — Open RN, NCBI Bookshelf
- Error-Prone Abbreviations, Symbols, and Dose Designations — Institute for Safe Medication Practices
Site editor: Daniel Tran, PharmD. Educational use only. Verify the order, current drug reference, prepared product, and facility policy before clinical use.
For educational use only. Always verify with clinical judgment and facility protocols.