Starship GIR Calculator

GIR 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 (GIR)?

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 formula:

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

Where:

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

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 crucial for maintaining appropriate glucose levels in neonates and pediatric patients, preventing 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 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 6-8 mg/kg/min initially.

Q2: How often should GIR be calculated?
A: GIR should be recalculated whenever the infusion rate or concentration changes, or if the patient's clinical status changes.

Q3: What are the risks of incorrect GIR?
A: Too low GIR can cause hypoglycemia, while too high GIR can lead to 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 rate. Enteral feeds or other glucose sources should be considered separately.

Q5: Can this be used for adult patients?
A: While the calculation works the same, GIR is primarily used in neonatal and pediatric care. Adults typically use different glucose monitoring protocols.