Glucose Infusion Rate Calculator Cornell Hospital

Glucose Infusion Rate Equation:

\[ GIR = \frac{\text{Infusion Rate (mL/hr)} \times \text{Dextrose Concentration (g/dL)} \times 1000 \text{ (mg/g)}}{\text{Weight (kg)} \times 60 \text{ (min/hr)} \times 100 \text{ (mL/dL)}} \]

Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR):

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1. What is Glucose Infusion Rate?

The Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR) measures how much glucose is being delivered to a patient per kilogram of body weight per minute. It's commonly used in neonatal and pediatric intensive care to monitor and adjust intravenous glucose administration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the GIR equation:

\[ GIR = \frac{\text{Infusion Rate} \times \text{Dextrose Concentration} \times 1000}{\text{Weight} \times 60 \times 100} \]

Where:

Infusion Rate — IV fluid administration rate (mL/hr)
Dextrose Concentration — Percentage of dextrose in solution (g/dL)
Weight — Patient's body weight (kg)
1000 — Conversion factor (mg/g)
60 — Conversion factor (min/hr)
100 — Conversion factor (mL/dL)

Explanation: The equation converts the total glucose delivery into mg/kg/min by accounting for all unit conversions and patient weight.

3. Importance of GIR Calculation

Details: Accurate GIR calculation is essential for maintaining proper glucose levels in critically ill patients, especially neonates, preventing both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia which can have serious consequences.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the IV infusion rate in mL/hr, dextrose concentration in g/dL (e.g., 10 for D10W), and patient weight in kg. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical GIR range for neonates?
A: Term neonates typically start at 4-6 mg/kg/min, while preterm infants may require higher rates (6-8 mg/kg/min) due to higher glucose utilization.

Q2: How often should GIR be calculated?
A: GIR should be recalculated whenever infusion rates or concentrations are changed, or when significant weight changes occur.

Q3: What's the difference between g/dL and % for dextrose concentration?
A: They are equivalent (10 g/dL = 10% dextrose solution). The calculator uses g/dL for dimensional consistency.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for adults?
A: While the calculation works the same, GIR is less commonly monitored in adults who typically receive standard TPN formulations.

Q5: What if my patient is on multiple IV solutions?
A: Calculate GIR for each solution separately and sum the results to get total glucose administration.