Standardizing dopamine solution calculations.

Abstract

A procedure for standardizing dopamine solution calulations in the intensive care unit is presented. Dopamine solutions were standardized into two preparations: (1) 1 mg/ml, a concentration to be used for most patients, and (2) 2 mg/ml, for fluid-restricted patients. Both concentrations were prepared in dextrose 5% in water. Nomograms were prepared for each standard concentration to facilitate dosage and infusion rat calculations for patients of various body weight.