Weight-Based Heparin Drip Calculator
Estimate bolus and maintenance heparin infusion rates using common weight-based nomograms. Always follow your institution’s anticoagulation protocol.
Understanding this tool
Why nurses use it
Weight-based heparin nomograms are common for VTE and ACS pathways. Nurses use bolus and maintenance unit calculations as a starting point before applying the institution-specific protocol and aPTT/anti-Xa monitoring.
When to use it
Use only as an illustrative check alongside your approved heparin protocol — never as the sole basis for prescribing or titrating heparin.
Calculate
How to use this calculator
- Confirm patient weight.
- Select your unit’s nomogram style or enter custom units/kg/hr if directed.
- Compare output with the protocol chart and pharmacy.
- Monitor aPTT or anti-Xa per policy.
How the calculation works
Common teaching example: bolus 80 units/kg and maintenance 18 units/kg/hr. Actual protocols vary — always use the mandated nomogram.
Formula used by this tool — verify units before applying at the bedside.
Worked example
Limitations & clinical notes
- Institution protocols vary — never use generic nomograms without local approval.
- Requires aPTT or anti-Xa monitoring per protocol.
References
Key sources: ASH — Antithrombotic therapy guidelines.
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Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational and bedside double-check purposes only. It does not replace institutional protocols, prescriber orders, pharmacist verification, or clinical judgment. Always follow your local policies — especially for high-risk medications, infusions, pediatrics, and critical care. If the patient is acutely unwell, escalate immediately rather than relying on any calculator output.