What is the flow rate in gtts/min when using 15 gtts/ml tubing and a rate of 0.78 ml/min?

To determine the flow rate in drops per minute (gtts/min) when using a specific type of IV tubing, you start with the given flow rate in milliliters per minute and the drop factor of the tubing.

In this scenario, you have a flow rate of 0.78 ml/min and the drop factor of the tubing is 15 gtts/ml. To find the flow rate in drops per minute, you can use the formula:

Flow Rate (gtts/min) = Flow Rate (ml/min) x Drop Factor (gtts/ml)

By substituting the known values into the formula, we calculate:

Flow Rate (gtts/min) = 0.78 ml/min x 15 gtts/ml

Now multiplying these values:

0.78 x 15 = 11.7 gtts/min

When rounding this figure to the nearest whole number, it becomes 12 gtts/min. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is indeed 12 gtts/min. This method of converting flow rates is essential in pharmacy, especially when working with intravenous medications or solutions. Understanding the relationship between milliliters, drops, and the drop factor allows for accurate dosing and administration of medications.