Using the formula [(Volume in mL/Infusion Time in minutes) x 60], calculate the IV infusion rate required to deliver 150 mL over 30 minutes. What flow rate should the nurse set on the pump?

Intravenous therapy requires precise volumetric calculation to ensure hemodynamic stability and prevent circulatory overload. Nurses utilize automated infusion pumps to maintain consistent medication serum levels and optimize therapeutic outcomes. Rationale: A. A rate of 150 mL/hr would take 60 minutes to complete the infusion, which is double the requested time. This results in delayed therapy and subtherapeutic drug levels. The timing does not match the order. Patient safety is compromised. B. Step 1: Identify the formula Flow rate (mL/hr) = (Volume ÷ Time in minutes) × 60 Step 2: Insert values = (150 ÷ 30) × 60 Step 3: Calculate = 5 × 60 = 300 mL/hr Final Answer: 300 mL/hr C. Delivering the fluid at 200 mL/hr is an inaccurate rate based on the provided mathematical formula. This velocity would result in a prolonged infusion time of 45 minutes. It fails to meet the protocol. Consistency is vital. D. A flow rate of 450 mL/hr is significantly too fast and could lead to rapid volume expansion. This increases the risk of iatrogenic complications like pulmonary edema or vascular irritation. The calculation error poses a threat.