Burn Surface Area and Parkland Formula
Parkland equation calculator for burn fluid resuscitation. Calculates 4 mL x kg x %TBSA to determine Lactated Ringer's volume for the first 24 hours. Give 50% in the first 8 hours and the remaining 50% over the next 16 hours. Uses the Rule of Nines for TBSA estimation.
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Formula
How it works: Determines the volume of Lactated Ringer's solution required in the first 24 hours for major burn victims.
Worked Example
The Parkland Equation for Burn Fluid Resuscitation
The Parkland equation (also known as the Baxter formula) is the standard method for calculating initial fluid resuscitation in major burn patients. Correct fluid management in the first 24 hours is critical to prevent burn shock, organ failure, and death.
- Parkland equation: Total fluid (mL) = 4 mL x body weight (kg) x %TBSA burned
- Give 50% of the total volume in the first 8 hours from burn injury, and 50% over the next 16 hours
- Use Lactated Ringer's solution as the preferred crystalloid for burn resuscitation
- Estimate TBSA with the Rule of Nines: Head 9%, Each Arm 9%, Torso 36%, Each Leg 18%, Perineum 1%
- Titrate fluids to urine output targets: 0.5-1.0 mL/kg/hr in adults, 1.0-1.5 mL/kg/hr in children
The Parkland formula provides an initial estimate only. Fluid resuscitation must be titrated to clinical endpoints, primarily hourly urine output. Over-resuscitation (fluid creep) can cause pulmonary edema and abdominal compartment syndrome.
You can also calculate changes using our Shock Index Calculator or Paediatric Maintenance Fluid Calculator.
Rule of Nines: Body Surface Area for Burn Assessment
The Rule of Nines is used to rapidly estimate total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns in adults. Pediatric values differ and use the Lund-Browder chart for accuracy.
| Body Region | Adult TBSA (%) | Child TBSA (%) | Infant TBSA (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Head and neck | 9% | 15% | 18% |
| Each arm (front and back) | 9% | 9% | 9% |
| Chest (front) | 9% | 9% | 9% |
| Abdomen (front) | 9% | 9% | 9% |
| Upper back | 9% | 9% | 9% |
| Lower back | 9% | 9% | 9% |
| Each leg (front and back) | 18% | 14% | 14% |
| Perineum | 1% | 1% | 1% |
| Total | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Note: The Rule of Nines provides a rapid field estimate. For precise TBSA calculation, especially in children, use the Lund-Browder chart. The palm of the patient's hand (including fingers) equals approximately 1% TBSA and can be used for scattered or irregular burns. Only second-degree (partial thickness) and third-degree (full thickness) burns are counted for fluid resuscitation. For educational reference only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Parkland equation for burns?
The Parkland equation (Baxter formula) calculates burn fluid resuscitation: Total fluid = 4 mL x body weight (kg) x %TBSA burned. For a 70 kg patient with 30% TBSA burns: 4 x 70 x 30 = 8,400 mL of Lactated Ringer's in the first 24 hours. Half is given in the first 8 hours, half over the next 16 hours.
What is the Rule of Nines for TBSA estimation?
The Rule of Nines divides the adult body into regions of 9% (or multiples): Head and neck 9%, Each upper extremity 9%, Anterior trunk 18%, Posterior trunk 18%, Each lower extremity 18%, and Perineum 1%. In children, the head is proportionally larger (up to 18% in infants) and legs smaller.
Why is Lactated Ringer's the preferred fluid?
Lactated Ringer's is an isotonic crystalloid that closely matches the electrolyte composition of plasma. It minimizes the risk of hyperchloremic acidosis compared to normal saline. Large-volume resuscitation with normal saline can worsen metabolic acidosis in burn patients.
What urine output targets guide burn resuscitation?
Adequate resuscitation targets a urine output of 0.5 to 1.0 mL/kg/hr in adults and 1.0 to 1.5 mL/kg/hr in children. An indwelling urinary catheter is essential for monitoring. If output drops below target, increase the fluid rate by 25-50%.
When does the Parkland formula apply?
The Parkland formula is used for second-degree (partial thickness) and third-degree (full thickness) burns covering more than 15-20% TBSA in adults or more than 10% TBSA in children. Superficial (first-degree) burns and small burns are managed with oral fluids and standard wound care.
What is fluid creep in burn resuscitation?
Fluid creep refers to administering significantly more fluid than the Parkland formula calculates, often exceeding 6 mL/kg/%TBSA. Over-resuscitation can lead to pulmonary edema, abdominal compartment syndrome, and extremity compartment syndrome. Strict adherence to urine output targets helps prevent fluid creep.
Can I use this Burn Surface Area and Parkland Formula on my own web page?
You can. Look for the "Embed" button near the top of this calculator. It lets you pick a size, border style, and color palette, then gives you an iframe tag to paste into any webpage. The widget is responsive, loads fast, and costs nothing. More details at calculory.com/services/embed-calculators.
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions based on these results. Do not disregard or delay seeking medical advice because of information obtained from this tool.
AI Assistant
Ask about this calculator
I can help you understand the burn surface area and parkland formula formula, interpret your results, and answer follow-up questions.
Try asking
Our AI assistant provides general estimates and advice only. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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