What is the fluid infusion rate for a 90 kg person with a 40% burn?

The correct answer is based on the formula used to calculate the fluid resuscitation needs for burn patients, which is crucial in preventing shock and ensuring proper tissue perfusion. For burn patients, the Parkland formula is commonly applied. This formula states that within the first 24 hours after a burn injury, a patient should receive fluid equal to 4 mL x body weight in kg x percentage of total body surface area burned.

In this scenario, for a 90 kg person with a 40% burn, the calculation would proceed as follows:

1. Calculate the fluid requirement: 4 mL x 90 kg x 40 = 14,400 mL over 24 hours.

2. To determine the hourly fluid infusion rate, divide the total volume by 24: 14,400 mL ÷ 24 hours = 600 mL/hr.

Thus, a fluid infusion rate of 600 mL/hr aligns with the calculated requirement for managing this burn patient effectively within the first 24 hours post-injury, ensuring adequate circulatory volume and perfusion. The understanding of this calculation is essential in trauma care because it directly affects the patient’s survival and recovery outcomes.