(5) Divide the quotient obtained in step (4) by 8 to determine the amount of
IV fluid to be administered per hour during the first eight hours. Divide the quotient
obtained in step (4) by 16 to determine the amount of IV fluid to be administered per
hour during the remaining 16-hour period.
(6)
Divide the amount per hour by 60 to determine the amount per minute.
(7) Multiply the amount per minute by the number of drops per milliliter
(usually 10 drops equal one milliliter) to obtain the number of drops per minute to be
administered. This is the flow rate. Note that the flow rate (drops per minute) for the
first eight hours is twice as fast as the flow rate (drops per minute) for the last 16
hours.
(8)
An example is given in figure 6-6.
c. Select a large peripheral vein for needle insertion.
(1) If possible, initiate the IV in an area which has not been burned. An
accessible vein with overlying burned skin can still be used, however.
(2)
A vein in an upper extremity is usually preferred over a vein in a lower
extremity.
d. Select a large gauge (16 gauge or 18 gauge) needle.
e. Initiate the intravenous infusion using the procedures given in Subcourse
MD0552, Injections and Intravenous Infusions. Ringer's injection lactated (RL) is the
preferred replacement fluid. Normal saline (NS) is the second fluid of choice.
MD0554
6-10