Which drop factor is typical for microdrip IV systems?

Which drop factor is typical for microdrip IV systems?

• A. 60 gtt/mL
• B. 10 gtt/mL
• C. 15 gtt/mL
• D. 20 gtt/mL

Answer: (A)

Microdrip infusions use a smaller drop to give finer control over the flow with gravity. A drop factor of 60 gtt per mL is typical. This small drop size allows slower, more precise delivery, and it also makes calculations easier: using the common formula gtt/min = (mL/hr) × (drop factor) / 60, a drop factor of 60 simplifies to gtt/min ≈ mL/hr, so the rate in drops per minute closely matches the rate in milliliters per hour. Macrodrip sets use larger drops (like 10, 15, or 20 gtt/mL) for faster infusions.

Microdrip infusions use a smaller drop to give finer control over the flow with gravity. A drop factor of 60 gtt per mL is typical. This small drop size allows slower, more precise delivery, and it also makes calculations easier: using the common formula gtt/min = (mL/hr) × (drop factor) / 60, a drop factor of 60 simplifies to gtt/min ≈ mL/hr, so the rate in drops per minute closely matches the rate in milliliters per hour. Macrodrip sets use larger drops (like 10, 15, or 20 gtt/mL) for faster infusions.