GIR Calculator
Calculate total glucose infusion rate from dextrose concentration and IV flow rate for infant parenteral nutrition.
What Is GIR?
GIR (glucose infusion rate) measures how much glucose a patient receives per kilogram per minute from IV dextrose solutions. Neonatal teams use it to balance hypoglycemia prevention with safe glucose delivery during parenteral nutrition. Related fluid tools include the Drip Rate Calculator and Dosage Calculator.
GIR Formula
For each dextrose line, glucose infusion rate in mg/kg/min is:
$$GIR = \frac{IV\ rate\ (mL/h) \times Dextrose\ (\%) \times 1000}{Weight\ (kg) \times 60 \times 100}$$
Dextrose concentration is entered as a percentage (for example, D10 is 10%). When multiple IV lines run concurrently, calculate each line separately and add the results for total GIR.
Target Ranges
Typical maintenance targets differ by gestational age:
- Term infants: about 4 to 6 mg/kg/min
- Preterm infants: about 5 to 8 mg/kg/min
Rates below 4 mg/kg/min may increase hypoglycemia risk. Rates above 18 to 20 mg/kg/min often warrant closer glucose monitoring because hyperglycemia risk rises. Always follow your unit protocol and clinician orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What units does GIR use?
GIR is expressed in milligrams of glucose per kilogram of body weight per minute (mg/kg/min).
How do I enter dextrose concentration?
Enter the percentage on the bag label. D5 is 5%, D10 is 10%, and D12.5 is 12.5%.
Can I add more than one IV line?
Yes. Enter up to three concurrent dextrose lines. The calculator sums each line's GIR for a total rate.
Why are term and preterm targets different?
Preterm infants often need slightly higher glucose delivery to support growth and brain metabolism while avoiding hypoglycemia.
Does this replace pharmacist or NICU verification?
No. This is an educational calculator. Licensed clinicians must verify all parenteral nutrition orders before administration.