Neonatal Glucose Infusion Rate Calculator

Glucose Infusion Rate Formula:

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

Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR):

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1. What is Glucose Infusion Rate?

The Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR) is a measure of how much glucose is being delivered to a neonate per kilogram of body weight per minute. It's a critical parameter in neonatal care to ensure appropriate glucose delivery while avoiding hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the GIR formula:

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

Where:

Infusion Rate — Intravenous fluid rate (mL/hr)
Dextrose Concentration — Percentage of dextrose in solution (g/dL)
Weight — Neonate's weight in kilograms (kg)
1000 — Conversion factor from grams to milligrams
60 — Conversion factor from hours to minutes
100 — Conversion factor from dL to mL

Explanation: The equation converts all units to arrive at mg of glucose per kg of body weight per minute.

3. Importance of GIR Calculation

Details: Accurate GIR calculation is essential for maintaining appropriate glucose levels in neonates, particularly preterm infants who are at risk for both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the IV infusion rate in mL/hr, dextrose concentration in g/dL (e.g., 10% dextrose = 10 g/dL), and the neonate's weight in kg. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical GIR range for neonates?
A: For stable neonates, GIR is typically maintained between 4-8 mg/kg/min, but may vary based on clinical status and gestational age.

Q2: How often should GIR be recalculated?
A: GIR should be recalculated whenever infusion rates or concentrations are changed, or when the infant's weight changes significantly.

Q3: What are the risks of incorrect GIR?
A: Too low GIR can lead to hypoglycemia, while too high GIR can cause hyperglycemia, osmotic diuresis, or hepatic steatosis.

Q4: Does this calculator account for other sources of glucose?
A: No, this calculates only the IV glucose infusion. Enteral feeds or other glucose sources should be considered separately.

Q5: Can this be used for pediatric patients?
A: While the formula works, GIR is most commonly used in neonatal intensive care settings.