1. What is the mg/kg/h Running Dose Calculation?

The mg per kg per hour running dose calculation determines the total medication dose required based on the infusion rate (mg/kg/h), patient weight, and duration of infusion. This is commonly used in critical care settings for continuous medication infusions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( mg/kg/h \) — Infusion rate in milligrams per kilogram per hour
• \( Weight \) — Patient weight in kilograms
• \( Hours\ Running \) — Duration of infusion in hours

Explanation: The equation multiplies the infusion rate by the patient's weight to get mg/h, then multiplies by the number of hours to get the total dose.

3. Importance of Dose Calculation

Details: Accurate dose calculation is crucial for medications with narrow therapeutic windows, ensuring patients receive the correct amount of medication over the prescribed duration.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the infusion rate in mg/kg/h, patient weight in kg, and hours running. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When is this calculation typically used?
A: This is commonly used for continuous IV infusions in critical care, such as vasoactive drugs, sedatives, or inotropes.

Q2: How should weight be determined for this calculation?
A: Use actual body weight unless the patient is obese, in which case consult your institution's guidelines about using adjusted or ideal body weight.

Q3: What if the infusion rate changes during the infusion?
A: You would need to calculate each segment separately and sum the doses, or use an infusion pump that logs rate changes.

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This assumes a constant infusion rate. For variable rates or complex regimens, more sophisticated calculations may be needed.

Q5: Should this be used for all medications?
A: No, this is primarily for continuous infusions. Bolus doses or intermittent medications require different calculations.