Parkland Formula (Burn Fluid Resuscitation)
Calculate 24-hour Lactated Ringer's fluid resuscitation volumes for burn patients using the Parkland formula, with hourly infusion rates for first 8 and next 16 hours.
Results
What is it?
For educational and clinical reference only. Not a substitute for professional medical judgment. Always verify with current clinical guidelines and consult qualified healthcare providers. The Parkland formula estimates 24-hour IV fluid requirements for major burn resuscitation: Total fluid (mL) = 4 � weight (kg) � TBSA (%). Half is given in the first 8 hours from the time of burn (NOT hospital arrival), and the remaining half over the next 16 hours, using Lactated Ringer's solution. Include only 2nd and 3rd degree burns in TBSA estimation.
How to use
Enter patient weight in kg and TBSA percentage (use Rule of Nines or Lund-Browder chart). The calculator provides total fluid volume, hourly rate for the first 8 hours (from burn time), and hourly rate for the subsequent 16 hours. Adjust rates based on urine output (target 0.5�1 mL/kg/hr in adults, 1 mL/kg/hr in children).
Example scenario
70 kg adult with 30% TBSA burns: Total = 4�70�30 = 8400 mL. First 8 hrs: 4200 mL ? 525 mL/hr. Next 16 hrs: 4200 mL ? 263 mL/hr. If burn occurred 2 hours ago, you have 6 hours to give the first half � adjust rate to 4200/6 = 700 mL/hr.
Pro tip
The Parkland formula is a starting point � not a rigid prescription. Over-resuscitation ('fluid creep') causes abdominal compartment syndrome and pulmonary edema. Use urine output as the primary endpoint; consider albumin supplementation after 12�24 hours if large volumes are required. The Modified Brooke formula (2 mL/kg/% TBSA) is an alternative used by some burn centers.