IV Drip Rate Calculator (Drops per Minute and mL/h)
Enter the volume, infusion time and giving-set drop factor to get the drip rate.
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IV Drip Rate Calculator (Drops per Minute and mL/h) by TheCalcTools
How the IV Drip Rate Calculator (Drops per Minute and mL/h) works
Drops per minute = volume (mL) × drop factor ÷ time in minutes. The drop factor is printed on the giving-set packaging. Infusion pumps are set in mL per hour.
Round drip rates to a whole number of drops and recheck regularly. Always follow the prescription and local protocols.
The formula
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator:
| Volume to infuse (mL) | 1000 |
|---|---|
| Time (hours) | 8 |
| Drop factor (drops per mL) | 20 gtt/mL (common adult set) |
- 1,000 mL over 8 h with a 20 gtt/mL set: 1,000 × 20 ÷ 480 = 42 drops per minute (125 mL/h).
Result:
| Drip rate (drops per minute) | 42 |
|---|---|
| Pump rate (mL per hour) | 125.0 |
| Seconds between drops | 1.44 |
Frequently asked questions
What is a micro-drip set?
A 60 drops per mL set, used for small or precise volumes; the drops per minute then equal the mL per hour.
Sources and further reading
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This calculator gives general estimates for information and education. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose anything. Talk to a qualified health professional about your own situation. See our disclaimer.