How is the Parkland formula calculated for burn treatment?

The Parkland formula is a vital guideline used in calculating the fluid resuscitation requirements for burn victims, particularly in the first 24 hours after the injury. The formula specifically dictates that for each percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) burned, a patient should receive 4 mL of Ringer's lactate solution for every kilogram of body weight. This calculation helps to ensure that the patient is effectively rehydrated, maintaining sufficient blood volume and preventing shock due to fluid loss.

The choice of 4 mL is grounded in clinical practice and research that indicates this amount effectively supports the physiological needs of burn patients based on their total body weight and the extent of the burn.

In practice, the total volume calculated using this method is administered over the first 24 hours, with half of the total volume given in the first 8 hours post-injury and the remaining half in the subsequent 16 hours. This method has been validated in numerous clinical settings and provides a structured approach to managing fluid resuscitation in burn patients effectively.