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Heparin Drip Equation:
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Heparin drip calculation determines the appropriate infusion rate for intravenous heparin administration based on patient weight, desired dose, and medication concentration. This calculation is essential for safe and effective anticoagulation therapy.
The calculator uses the heparin drip equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation calculates the hourly infusion rate required to deliver the prescribed heparin dose based on the patient's weight and medication concentration.
Details: Accurate heparin dosing is critical for achieving therapeutic anticoagulation while minimizing bleeding risks. Proper calculation ensures patients receive the correct amount of medication based on their individual characteristics.
Tips: Enter desired dose in units/kg/hr, patient weight in kg, and concentration in units/mL. All values must be valid positive numbers.
Q1: What is the typical heparin dosing range?
A: Heparin dosing typically ranges from 12-18 units/kg/hr for most indications, but always follow specific institutional protocols and physician orders.
Q2: How often should heparin infusion rates be adjusted?
A: Heparin infusion rates should be adjusted based on regular monitoring of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) levels, typically every 6 hours until therapeutic levels are achieved.
Q3: What are common heparin concentrations?
A: Common concentrations include 25,000 units in 250 mL (100 units/mL) or 25,000 units in 500 mL (50 units/mL), but always verify the specific concentration being used.
Q4: Are there special considerations for obese patients?
A: Some protocols use adjusted body weight for heparin dosing in obese patients. Always follow specific institutional guidelines for weight-based calculations.
Q5: What monitoring is required during heparin infusion?
A: Regular monitoring of aPTT, complete blood count (for platelet monitoring), and signs of bleeding are essential during heparin therapy.