A 25-year-old man sustains 40% total body surface area (TBSA) burns (second-degree and third-degree). Using the Parkland formula, calculate the fluid requirement for the FIRST 8 hours from time of burn. Weight = 70 kg.
- A 4 mL × 70 × 40 = 11200 mL total; first 8 hours = 5600 mL ✓
- B 2800 mL Ringer's lactate
- C 5600 mL Ringer's lactate
- D 11200 mL Ringer's lactate
Correct answer: A. 4 mL × 70 × 40 = 11200 mL total; first 8 hours = 5600 mL
Explanation
Parkland formula: 4 mL × weight (kg) × %TBSA burned = total fluid in first 24 hours. 4 × 70 × 40 = 11,200 mL. Half (5,600 mL) is given in the first 8 hours from time of burn (not from arrival), and the remaining 5,600 mL over the next 16 hours. Ringer's lactate is the preferred crystalloid. Time is calculated from the time of injury, not hospital admission, so if the patient arrives late, the initial rate is adjusted accordingly.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.