Question

the provider places an order for vasopressin continuous infusion to achieve a urine output of 4ml/kg/hour. the patient weight is 175 pounds. calculate the goal hourly output for the patient. (round to the whole number)

Answer 1

Continuous infusion is given to achieve a urine output of 4ml/kg/hour.

The normal urine output for an adult during 24hr period is 800ml to 2000ml which is usually 1ml/kg/hour.

In the case mentioned the goal to be achieved is 4ml/kg/hour and the patients is 175pounds.

Patients weight = 175 pounds

1 kg = 2.2 pounds

Weight in kg = 175 ÷ 2.2 = 79.5 kg (79kg)

Set goal = 4ml/kg/hour

which is for 1kg its 4ml, for 79 kg =?

Amount of output for 79 kg patient = weight of patient in kg x set goal

= 79 kg x 4 ml/kg/hour= 316ml/hour

Therefore as per patients weight the goal hourly output is = 316ml/hour