1. What is a Pediatric Fluid Replacement Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the total fluid replacement needed for pediatric patients based on deficit, maintenance requirements, and ongoing losses.

Purpose: It helps medical professionals determine appropriate fluid therapy for dehydrated pediatric patients.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• Replacement — Total fluid volume needed (ml)
• Deficit — Calculated fluid deficit based on degree of dehydration
• Maintenance — Daily fluid requirements based on weight
• Ongoing losses — Additional fluid losses from vomiting, diarrhea, etc.

Explanation: The three components are summed to determine the total fluid replacement needed over 24 hours.

3. Importance of Fluid Replacement Calculation

Details: Accurate fluid calculation prevents both under-hydration (risk of shock) and over-hydration (risk of edema) in pediatric patients.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the calculated deficit (ml), maintenance fluids (ml), and estimated ongoing losses (ml). All values must be ≥ 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is fluid deficit calculated?
A: Deficit = Weight (kg) × % dehydration × 1000. For example, a 10kg child with 5% dehydration has a 500ml deficit.

Q2: What's the formula for maintenance fluids?
A: Holliday-Segar method: 100ml/kg/day for first 10kg, 50ml/kg/day for next 10kg, 20ml/kg/day for each kg above 20kg.

Q3: How to estimate ongoing losses?
A: Measure or estimate output (vomit, diarrhea, NG output) and replace ml-for-ml.

Q4: Over what time should replacement be given?
A: Typically, deficit is replaced over 24 hours, with half given in first 8 hours for moderate-severe dehydration.

Q5: When should IV fluids be used?
A: For severe dehydration, shock, or when oral intake is not possible.