Enteral feeding is more than just programming a pump, it’s about delivering proper nutrition safely and effectively. Two critical factors in this process are rate and dose. Understanding these terms and what influences them can make a big difference in patient comfort and health outcomes.
What are rate and dose?
- Rate: How fast the formula is delivered measured in milliliters delivered per hour (mL/hr).
- Dose: The total amount of formula delivered during a feeding measured in milliliters (mL).
- Duration: The total amount of time needed to deliver the dose and the programmed rate.
These numbers aren’t arbitrary, they ensure patients receive the right nutrition at the right pace. Too fast, and you risk discomfort or complications like nausea and diarrhea. Too slow, and nutritional goals may not be met.
Rate, dose, and feeding duration are all interconnected. If dose and duration are known, then the required rate can be calculated. Or, if the rate and duration are known, then dose can be calculated. For example:
- Calculating rate: If 60 mL (the dose) is to be delivered over 20 minutes (the duration), then rate must be set to 180 mL/hr (dose in mL divided by infusion time in hours equals the required rate in mL/hr)
- Calculating dose: If 50 mL/hr (the rate) is to be delivered over 2 hours (the duration), then the dose will be 100 mL (rate in mL/hr multiplied by infusion time in hours equals the dose in mL).
Several factors can influence pump delivery accuracy
- Residual volume in tubing: When an enteral feeding is completed, a small amount of formula typically remains in the downstream tubing of the delivery set. This undelivered formula is often referred to as residual volume. This happens because as formula is emptied from the bag, the pump may detect air in the tubing – it then stops pumping so air is not delivered to the patient. Each pump has different residual volume amounts that must be accounted for when filling the delivery set. For example, the Infinity feeding pump has a residual downstream volume of about 11.5 mL, while the Infinity Orange has a residual downstream volume of only about 1.5 mL. If the prescribed dose is 60 mL, you’ll need to add the residual volume to the dose to ensure the patient receives the full amount. Read more about compensating for residual volume.
- Pump accuracy tolerance: Each enteral feeding pump also has a different level of accuracy. Infinity and Infinity Orange pumps deliver +-5% accuracy. This means that is a 60 mL dose was programmed to deliver over 60 minutes, the actual delivery could be between 57 and 63 mL. Always check your manufacturers setting to ensure the accuracy. Visual checks after feeding are also important. Read more about accuracy with feeding pumps here.
Why getting it right matters
- Nutrition goals: Ensures patients meet prescribed nutritional needs.
- Patient comfort: Correct rate reduces bloating and cramping.
- Safety: Reduces the chance of dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and aspiration risk.
Make It easier with the right tools
Calculating rate and dose doesn’t have to be stressful. The Enteral Feeding Pump Calculator for Infinity and Infinity Orange pumps simplifies the process, reducing guesswork and improving accuracy. If you are ever unsure, always contact your healthcare provider first.
Use the Enteral Feeding Pump Calculator here.
This tool helps you:
- Determine correct pump settings.
- Account for residual volume.
- Adjust for feeding duration
When in doubt, reach out!
If you’re ever unsure about rate, dose, or formula type, always consult your healthcare provider first. They can guide you to ensure safety and proper nutrition. Your health and comfort matter. By understanding rate, dose, and the factors that influence them, you can make enteral feeding safer and even more effective.
Supporting resources:
Cory Orme
Cory Orme is a Senior Product Marketing Manager at Moog Medical, specializing in go-to-market strategy, product positioning, and data-driven marketing for healthcare solutions. He holds a Marketing degree from Weber State University and is passionate about aligning customer and patient needs with our products. Cory in his free time enjoys watching/playing soccer and ultimate frisbee.
