zaro

What is the rate of TKO?

Published in IV Fluid Administration 3 mins read

The standard rate for a "To Keep Open" (TKO) intravenous (IV) line is typically between 25 and 50 cubic centimeters per hour (cc/hr).

Understanding TKO IV Lines

A TKO (or To Keep Open) intravenous line refers to an IV infusion set at a very slow rate, primarily to maintain the patency of the IV access. This practice ensures that the vein remains accessible for potential future medication administration or fluid boluses, without delivering a significant volume of fluid to the patient. It's a common practice in clinical settings where immediate access is crucial but continuous high-volume fluid administration is not currently required.

The primary purpose of a TKO rate is to:

  • Prevent Occlusion: Keep the vein from clotting around the catheter, which would block the IV line.
  • Maintain Venous Access: Ensure a ready pathway for emergency medications or subsequent fluid infusions without needing to re-start an IV.

The Standard TKO Flow Rate

The established standard for an IV line set to "To Keep Open" is a flow rate designed to provide just enough fluid to prevent the line from clotting. This range is widely recognized in medical practice to balance efficacy with patient safety.

TKO IV Flow Rate Measurement Unit
25 to 50 cc/hr

Maintaining a patent IV line is a fundamental aspect of patient care, ensuring that venous access is readily available when needed. Standard IV fluid administration practices, including TKO rates, are carefully regulated to optimize patient outcomes.

Why is This Rate Crucial?

Setting the correct TKO rate is vital for several reasons:

  • Patient Safety: While keeping the line open, the low rate minimizes the risk of fluid overload, especially in patients sensitive to volume changes, such as those with heart failure, kidney dysfunction, or pediatric patients.
  • Efficiency: It saves healthcare professionals time and reduces patient discomfort by avoiding the need to repeatedly insert new IVs if the initial one clots.
  • Readiness: In emergency situations, a patent TKO line allows for immediate administration of life-saving medications or fluids without delay.

Practical Applications of TKO

TKO rates are commonly utilized in various clinical scenarios, including:

  • Patients Awaiting Orders: When a patient is admitted, and further treatment orders (e.g., specific medications or fluid types) are pending, a TKO line ensures immediate access once orders are received.
  • Emergency Department: Patients presenting to the emergency department often receive a TKO IV, providing immediate access for diagnostics, blood draws, or rapid medication administration if their condition deteriorates.
  • Pre- and Post-Operative Care: TKO lines are frequently used to maintain access for patients before and after surgery, allowing for easy administration of pre-operative medications, or post-operative pain management and anti-nausea drugs.
  • Intermittent Medication Administration: For patients receiving medications intermittently (e.g., antibiotics every few hours) who do not require continuous fluid infusion.