Calculates the drip rate from the infusion volume, time, and infusion set.
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Calculation basis and official references
Reviewed on:
This calculator is not a diagnosis, treatment plan, or prescription. Please consult a qualified clinician about your medical decisions.
Formula basis
When duration is specified: rate (mL/hr) = volume (mL) / duration (hr). When hourly rate is specified: rate = the input value directly. Drip rate (drops/min) = rate (mL/hr) x drip factor (drops/mL) / 60. Interval per drop (sec) = 60 / drip rate.
Calculation method
Calculates the drip rate per minute and the interval between drops from the infusion volume, time (or hourly rate), and the drip factor of the infusion set.
Exclusions and checks required
The actual infusion rate must be adjusted by clinical staff based on the patient condition, drug properties, and physician orders; this result is a reference only and must not be used directly as the administration rate.
Manual drop counting is prone to error; when an infusion pump is used, the pump flow setting takes precedence.
This formula does not apply to infusion sets with a drip factor other than 20 drops/mL or 60 drops/mL.
Example input:：Adult patient: 500 mL infused over 5 hours
volume
500
mode
Total infusion duration
hours
5
set
20 drops/mL
The 33.33 drops/min figure is a theoretical value; actual drip counting is adjusted visually and will vary slightly.
Calculates the drip rate from the infusion volume, time, and infusion set.
What values should I enter?
Applies to: Clinical practice
How should I interpret this estimate?
Calculates the drip rate per minute and the interval between drops from the infusion volume, time (or hourly rate), and the drip factor of the infusion set.
How to use
Enter your input values and press Calculate.
Review the result and compare it with expected context.
When duration is specified: rate (mL/hr) = volume (mL) / duration (hr). When hourly rate is specified: rate = the input value directly. Drip rate (drops/min) = rate (mL/hr) x drip factor (drops/mL) / 60. Interval per drop (sec) = 60 / drip rate.