NREMT Paramedic Practice

When calculating fluid resuscitation for burns, which formula is used?

1. Weight(kg) x 4 mL

2. Body Surface Area x Weight(kg) x 4 mL

3. Body Surface Area x 4 mL

4. Weight(kg) x Age x 4 mL

The correct answer is: Body Surface Area x Weight(kg) x 4 mL

The formula for calculating fluid resuscitation in cases of burns is crucial for providing the appropriate amount of intravenous fluids to maintain adequate tissue perfusion and prevent shock. The correct choice encompasses both the body surface area (BSA) affected by the burns and the patient’s weight. Using the formula that involves Body Surface Area multiplied by Weight and then multiplied by 4 mL allows healthcare providers to take into account the severity and extent of the burn injury as well as the patient’s overall body mass. This is important because the amount of fluid required varies with the total body surface area affected; larger burns generally require more fluid to compensate for loss due to evaporation and damage to skin integrity. This formula is widely recognized, such as the Parkland formula, which is commonly applied in the initial management of burn patients. It starts with the percentage of total body surface area burned, weighs the patient to ensure dosing is appropriate, and uses the 4 mL factor to determine the volume of fluid needed. In summary, integrating body surface area and weight into the calculation ensures that the resuscitation fluid volume is tailored to each patient's unique needs based on the burn extent and size.