Calculator Inputs
Plotly Graph
The first graph compares fluid sources. The second compares operating rates.
Example Data Table
| Scenario | Formula Volume | Hours | Flush Plan | Formula Density | Estimated Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard continuous | 1500 mL/day | 20 hr | 60 mL × 6 | 1.2 kcal/mL | 75 mL/hr |
| Higher calorie formula | 1200 mL/day | 18 hr | 50 mL × 5 | 1.5 kcal/mL | 66.67 mL/hr |
| Overnight cyclic feed | 1000 mL/day | 10 hr | 75 mL × 4 | 1.8 kcal/mL | 100 mL/hr |
Formula Used
Base feeding rate: Daily Formula Volume ÷ Infusion Hours
Adjusted rate with breaks: Daily Formula Volume ÷ (Infusion Hours − Break Hours)
Total flush water: Flush Volume × Flushes Per Day
Total daily fluid: Formula Volume + Total Flush Water + Medication Water
Calories delivered: Formula Volume × Formula Density
Protein delivered: (Formula Volume ÷ 1000) × Protein per Liter
Suggested volume from target calories: Target Calories ÷ Formula Density
Suggested target rate: Suggested Volume ÷ Effective Infusion Hours
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the planned daily formula volume in milliliters.
- Add the number of feeding hours scheduled each day.
- Include any break hours if the feed pauses routinely.
- Enter flush size, flush frequency, and medication water.
- Add formula density and protein concentration from the label.
- Provide calorie and fluid targets for gap checking.
- Press calculate to display rates, totals, and suggested targets.
- Download the results as CSV or PDF when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does this calculator estimate?
It estimates hourly tube feeding rate, total fluid intake, delivered calories, protein, and goal gaps. It also shows adjusted rates when scheduled breaks reduce actual feeding time.
2. Why are flushes included?
Flushes add meaningful daily water volume. Including them helps compare planned intake against fluid goals and may reduce underestimation of hydration support.
3. What is the difference between base and adjusted rate?
Base rate uses the full infusion time entered. Adjusted rate removes scheduled break hours, so the remaining hours must deliver the same total formula volume faster.
4. How is calorie delivery calculated?
Calories delivered equal formula volume multiplied by the product’s kcal per mL value. Use the manufacturer label or institutional formula sheet for the correct concentration.
5. Can I use this for cyclic or overnight feeds?
Yes. Enter the actual daily volume and the shorter infusion window. The calculator will return the higher hourly rate required for cyclic delivery.
6. What is pump accuracy factor?
It lets you adjust for intentional compensation or observed delivery differences. A value below 100 increases the displayed pump-adjusted rate slightly to offset reduced effective delivery.
7. Is this safe to use without clinical review?
No. Feeding tolerance, aspiration risk, electrolyte balance, renal status, and care setting matter. A qualified clinician should confirm any feeding order or adjustment.
8. What if the calorie or water gap is negative?
A negative gap means the current plan exceeds the target entered. Recheck units, formula density, flush schedule, and target goals before changing any regimen.