Intravenous Flow Rate
Enter the ordered IV volume and infusion time to calculate flow rates in millilitres per hour and per minute. Useful for pump programming, verifying orders, and documenting manual infusions.
Include additional minutes to improve accuracy.
Flow rate
125.0 mL/hr
Per minute
2.08 mL/min
Time per 100 mL
48.0 min
How to Use This Calculator
Verify the ordered infusion
Confirm fluid type, total volume, and required infusion time from the provider order or protocol.
Input volume and duration
Enter total millilitres and the infusion time split into hours and minutes. The calculator converts to total minutes.
Program the infusion device
Use the calculated mL/hr for infusion pumps, or convert to gtt/min (see drops-per-minute calculator) when using gravity sets.
Formula
mL/min = Volume (mL) ÷ Time (min)
mL/hr = mL/min × 60
Time per 100 mL = 100 ÷ (mL/min)
Full Description
Understanding IV flow rates ensures accurate delivery of maintenance fluids, resuscitation boluses, or medication infusions. Converting orders into mL/hr helps verify pump settings and detect discrepancies quickly. Always consider patient-specific factors such as renal function, cardiac status, and concurrent medications when adjusting rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the order is weight-based?
Convert the prescribed rate (e.g., mL/kg/hr) to total mL/hr by multiplying by patient weight before using this calculator.
How do I handle bolus infusions?
Enter the bolus volume and desired completion time (e.g., 1000 mL over 1 hour) to obtain the pump rate required.
Does this account for maintenance fluids?
Yes. Calculate maintenance requirements separately (e.g., Holliday-Segar) and input the resulting volume and time.
What safety checks should I perform?
Double-check calculations with a second clinician for high-risk medications, verify pump programming, and monitor the patient for response.