Clinical tool
Parkland Formula
Burn fluid resuscitation estimate for the first 24 hours.
Patient
Enter weight and burn area to see the 24 hour fluid estimate.
What this calculates
The Parkland formula estimates the crystalloid needed in the first 24 hours after a burn: 4 mL × weight (kg) × % total body surface area burned.
When to use it
To plan initial fluid resuscitation in adults and children with significant partial or full thickness burns.
How to interpret it
Half of the total is conventionally given in the first 8 hours counted from the time of the burn, and the other half over the following 16 hours. The figure is a starting estimate, then adjusted to urine output and perfusion.
Important limitations
- It is a starting estimate. Titrate to response (urine output about 0.5 mL/kg/h in adults and 1 mL/kg/h in children) and avoid over-resuscitation.
- Include only partial and full thickness burns when estimating the area. Superficial erythema is excluded.
- Inhalation injury, electrical burns, delayed presentation and other injuries commonly change requirements. Follow your burn service protocol.
For practising medics only. Clinical tools support judgement, they do not replace it. Always verify results against current guidelines and the patient in front of you.