The physician ordered heparin 1200 units/hour. Heparin is available as 40,000 units in 1000 mL D5W. What is the correct IV flow rate in milliliters per hour?
A) 10
B) 20
C) 30
D) 40

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When solving any problem, first check that the order and the supply are in the same weight measure. For this problem, no equivalent is necessary. To add medications to a continuous IV, you would estimate the amount to give using the same calculation methods that are used for preparing liquids for injection as covered in Chapter 5. Estimate the amount to give. Formula Method: 1200 units/40,000 units * 1000 mL = 1,200,000/40,000 = 30 mL/hour. Proportion (Ratios): 1000 mL : 40,000 units :: x mL : 1200 units; 40,000x = 1,200,000/40,000 = 30 mL/hour. Proportion (Fractions): x mL/1200 units = 1000 mL/40,000 units; 40,000x = 1,200,000/40,000 = 30 mL/hour. Dimensional Analysis: 1000 mL/40,000 units * 1200 units/1 hr = 1000 mL * 1200/40,000 * 1 hour = 1,200,000/40,000 = 30 mL/hour.

The Physician Ordered Heparin 1200 Units/hour