1. What is Body Surface Area (BSA) for Children?

Definition: BSA is a calculated measurement of the total surface area of the human body, important for medical purposes like drug dosing.

Purpose: The Haycock formula provides a more accurate BSA calculation for pediatric patients compared to adult formulas.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Haycock formula:

Where:

• \( BSA \) — Body Surface Area (square meters)
• \( W \) — Weight (kilograms)
• \( H \) — Height (centimeters)

Explanation: This formula accounts for the different body proportions in children compared to adults.

3. Importance of BSA Calculation

Details: Accurate BSA calculation is crucial for proper medication dosing, chemotherapy protocols, and fluid management in pediatric patients.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the child's weight in kilograms and height in centimeters. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use Haycock instead of other BSA formulas?
A: The Haycock formula was specifically developed for and validated in pediatric populations.

Q2: What age range is this calculator appropriate for?
A: This formula is suitable for children from birth through adolescence.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The Haycock formula has been shown to be more accurate than the DuBois formula for children, with error rates < 5%.

Q4: Should I use kg or lbs for weight?
A: The calculator requires weight in kilograms (1 kg = 2.2 lbs).

Q5: What's a normal BSA range for children?
A: BSA varies significantly with age: newborns ~0.2 m², 1 year ~0.5 m², 5 years ~0.7 m², 10 years ~1.1 m².