Pharmacy Technician PTCB Pharmacy Calculations 2

Question 1

An IV order calls for 1,000 mL of normal saline to infuse over 8 hours. What is the infusion rate in mL/hr?

Accepted Answer

125 mL/hr

Answer

1,000 mL ÷ 8 hours = 125 mL/hr infusion rate.

Question 2

Using a 15 gtt/mL drip set at 125 mL/hr, what is the drip rate in drops per minute?

Accepted Answer

31 gtt/min

Answer

125 mL/hr × 15 gtt/mL ÷ 60 min/hr = 31.25 ≈ 31 gtt/min.

Question 3

A solution is labeled 1:500. What is the equivalent percentage strength?

Accepted Answer

0.2%

Answer

1:500 means 1 g per 500 mL; (1 ÷ 500) × 100 = 0.2% w/v.

Question 4

A patient weighs 154 lbs. What is their weight in kilograms?

Accepted Answer

70 kg

Answer

154 lbs ÷ 2.2 lbs/kg = 70 kg.

Question 5

A drug is dosed at 5 mg/kg. For a 70 kg patient, what is the correct dose?

Accepted Answer

350 mg

Answer

5 mg/kg × 70 kg = 350 mg.

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