For an order of "1000 ml D5W over 8 hours," using macro drop tubing that delivers 10 gtts/ml, what is the correct flow rate?

To determine the correct flow rate for administering 1000 ml of D5W over 8 hours using macro drop tubing with a delivery rate of 10 gtts/ml, the total volume and duration need to be converted into a flow rate in drops per minute.

First, calculate the total number of drops needed for 1000 ml:

1000 ml x 10 gtts/ml = 10,000 gtts (total drops).

Next, convert the infusion duration from hours to minutes:

8 hours = 8 x 60 = 480 minutes.

Now divide the total drops by the total time in minutes to find the flow rate in drops per minute:

10,000 gtts ÷ 480 min = approximately 20.83 gtts/min.

Rounding to the nearest whole number gives a flow rate of 21 gtts/min. This makes option B the correct answer, as it accurately reflects the calculated flow rate for the specified volume and time using the given drop factor.

This understanding is critical in IV therapy as it ensures accurate delivery of fluids to patients, avoiding potential complications from incorrect infusion rates.