PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)Order Entry and ProcessingEasy

A pharmacy technician is preparing an IV admixture. The order is for 'Dextrose 5% in Water (D5W) 1000 mL to infuse over 8 hours.' What is the correct infusion rate in mL/hour?

  1. A150 mL/hour
  2. B80 mL/hour
  3. C125 mL/hour
  4. D200 mL/hour
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. 125 mL/hour

To calculate the infusion rate in mL/hour, divide the total volume (1000 mL) by the total infusion time (8 hours). 1000 mL / 8 hours = 125 mL/hour.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. This is incorrect; it might result from an arithmetic error or miscalculation.
  • B. This is incorrect; it might result from an arithmetic error or miscalculation.
  • D. This is incorrect; it might result from an arithmetic error or miscalculation.

IV Infusion Rate Calculation (mL/hour)

Calculating the rate at which an intravenous (IV) fluid should be administered to a patient, expressed in milliliters per hour.

  • Formula: Total Volume (mL) / Total Time (hours)
  • Essential for safe and accurate medication delivery
  • Technicians often prepare IVs based on these calculations

Memory trick: Volume Over Time, IV Drip's Prime.

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