NCLEX RN Practice Exam Related

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A client is to receive 1,000 mL of potassium chloride in 5% dextrose injection (D5W) intravenously over 3 hours and 20 minutes using a drop factor of 15 drops/mL. What is the required flow rate (drops) per minute? Record your answer using a whole number.

Correct Answer: 75

Rationale: To calculate the flow rate in drops per minute, use the formula: (Total volume X Drop factor)/ Total time in minutes. The total volume is 1,000 mL, the drop factor is 15 drops/mL, and the time is 3 hours 20 minutes = 200 minutes. Thus, (1,000 X 15)/ 200 = 15,000/ 200 = 75 drops/minute.