The function determines the appropriate speed at which nutrition or medication is delivered through a feeding pump, considering both the concentration of the substance being administered and the target quantity to be given. For instance, if a patient requires 500 ml of a nutritional formula over 24 hours, it establishes the rate at which the pump should operate to ensure this dosage is accurately administered.
Accurate calculation is crucial for patient safety and treatment efficacy. Under-delivery can lead to inadequate nutrition or medication levels, while over-delivery can result in serious complications. Historically, such determinations were made manually, increasing the risk of errors. Contemporary methods leverage automated systems, enhancing precision and reducing the potential for human error.