Drug Calculations

Drip Rate (drops/min) Calculator

Gravity-drip flow in drops per minute from volume, time and the tubing drop factor.

Reviewed by Alex G, BSN, RN, CEN, CCRN, CMC, NREMT-P · From the Reference tab of the app

Turn on JavaScript to use this calculator, or open it in the web app.

Formula

(Volume * Drop Factor) / Time

How it is used

• gtt/min = volume (mL) × drop factor (gtt/mL) ÷ time (min). Example: 500 mL over 4 h (240 min) on 20 gtt/mL tubing is 41.67, so 42 gtt/min.
• The drop factor is printed on the tubing package: macrodrip sets deliver 10, 15 or 20 gtt/mL, microdrip sets 60 gtt/mL.
• With microdrip tubing gtt/min equals mL/h; count drops for a full minute and recount after the patient moves.

Same formula as the app. Open it in the web app.

Drip cards with a dose ↔ mL/h converter

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• Desired Over Have
• mcg/kg/min to mL/hr
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• Weight-Based Dose (mg/kg)

For education and exam preparation only. Follow your institution’s protocols. For education and exam preparation only. Verify results independently and follow your local protocols and medical direction. Not a substitute for clinical judgment.