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

Definition: BSA is the calculated surface area of a human body, often used in medical practice for drug dosing and clinical measurements.

Purpose: The Haycock formula provides a more accurate BSA calculation for children than 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: The formula accounts for the non-linear relationship between body dimensions and surface area in growing children.

3. Importance of BSA Calculation

Details: Accurate BSA calculation is crucial for proper medication dosing, chemotherapy protocols, and nutritional assessments 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: While useful for all ages, it's particularly accurate for children from birth through adolescence.

Q3: How should I measure height for this calculation?
A: For infants, measure recumbent length. For children who can stand, measure standing height without shoes.

Q4: What's the typical BSA range for children?
A: Newborns average 0.2-0.3 m², while adolescents may reach adult ranges of 1.5-2.0 m².

Q5: Can this be used for medication dosing?
A: Always consult a healthcare professional for medication dosing decisions.