The rule of six: calculating intravenous infusions in a pediatric crisis situation.

The Rule of 6 is a mathematical equation which can be used in crisis situations to accurately speed the calculation process when preparing a medication infusion. The following article discusses the origin of the Rule of 6, applications for its use and several examples. Also included is a compatibility chart for drugs the Rule of 6 is commonly used with and common IV fluids. Institution specific compounding techniques are also included.