Parkland Formula Calculator
Calculate initial fluid resuscitation requirements for burn patients using the Parkland (Baxter) formula. This is the most widely used formula for estimating crystalloid fluid needs in the first 24 hours after a significant thermal burn injury.
The Parkland formula, developed by Dr. Charles Baxter at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas, calculates the total crystalloid fluid (Lactated Ringer's solution) needed in the first 24 hours post-burn: Total Volume = 4 mL x body weight (kg) x % total body surface area (TBSA) burned. Only second-degree (partial thickness) and third-degree (full thickness) burns are included in the TBSA calculation.
The calculated volume is administered in two phases: 50% of the total is given in the first 8 hours after the burn injury, and the remaining 50% over the following 16 hours. Critically, the 8-hour clock starts from the time of the burn injury, not from the time the patient arrives at the hospital. Fluid already given by EMS or in the emergency department counts toward the first 8-hour requirement.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This calculator is for educational purposes only. Burn resuscitation is complex and must be managed by trained medical professionals. The Parkland formula provides only a starting estimate. Actual fluid administration must be continuously titrated based on urine output, vital signs, and clinical assessment. Over-resuscitation can cause pulmonary edema, abdominal compartment syndrome, and other complications.