Pediatric IV Fluid Calculation Tool

Calculate the appropriate intravenous fluid rate for pediatric patients based on weight, using the Holliday-Segar method.

How to Use This Calculator

Enter the patient's weight in kilograms
Select the appropriate timeframe for fluid administration
Enter dehydration percentage if applicable
Add any additional fluids needed for medications
Click Calculate to see the recommended IV fluid rate

Formula Used

Holliday-Segar Method:

100 ml/kg for first 10 kg

+ 50 ml/kg for next 10 kg (11-20 kg)

+ 20 ml/kg for each kg above 20 kg



Replacement Fluid = Weight (kg) × Dehydration (%) × 10



Total Fluid = Maintenance + Replacement + Additional



Hourly Rate = Total Fluid ÷ Timeframe (hours)

Where:

Maintenance = Fluid needed for normal daily requirements
Replacement = Fluid needed to correct dehydration
Additional = Extra fluids for medications or other needs
Timeframe = Period over which fluids will be administered

Example Calculation

Real-World Scenario:

A 15 kg child presents with moderate dehydration (10%) and needs IV fluids for 24 hours.

Given:

Weight = 15 kg
Dehydration = 10%
Additional fluids = 0 ml
Timeframe = 24 hours

Calculation:

Maintenance: (10 kg × 100 ml/kg) + (5 kg × 50 ml/kg) = 1000 + 250 = 1250 ml/day

Replacement: 15 kg × 10% × 10 = 150 ml

Total: 1250 + 150 + 0 = 1400 ml

Result: 1400 ml over 24 hours = 58.3 ml/hour

Why This Calculation Matters

Clinical Applications

Prevents dehydration in hospitalized children
Ensures proper electrolyte balance
Guides fluid resuscitation in emergency settings

Key Benefits

Reduces risk of fluid overload or underhydration
Standardizes pediatric fluid calculations
Provides quick reference for healthcare providers

Common Mistakes & Tips

Children have different fluid requirements than adults due to their higher metabolic rate and larger body surface area to weight ratio. Always use pediatric-specific calculations for children under 18 years of age.

Forgetting to calculate replacement fluids for dehydration can lead to under-treatment. Always assess and include dehydration percentage in your calculations when applicable.

Using pounds instead of kilograms is a common error. Always double-check that you're using the correct weight unit, as pediatric fluid calculations are based on kilograms.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 8-hour timeframe is typically used for initial fluid resuscitation in cases of severe dehydration or shock, where rapid fluid replacement is needed. After the initial resuscitation phase, patients are usually transitioned to a 24-hour maintenance schedule.

The type of IV fluid depends on the patient's condition, electrolyte status, and age. Common options include isotonic solutions like 0.9% saline or lactated Ringer's for maintenance, and hypotonic solutions like 0.45% saline for certain conditions. Always follow institutional protocols and clinical judgment.

Pediatric patients should have their fluid status reassessed at least every 4-6 hours, or more frequently in critically ill patients. Monitor for signs of fluid overload (edema, weight gain) or inadequate hydration (decreased urine output, persistent tachycardia).

References & Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer

This calculator is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace clinical judgment. Healthcare providers should consider the patient's complete clinical picture when determining fluid management. Always follow institutional protocols and consult with a pediatric specialist when needed.

References

Pediatric Fluid and Electrolyte Therapy - National Center for Biotechnology Information
Holliday-Segar Method for Pediatric Fluid Requirements - American Academy of Pediatrics
Management of Acute Diarrhea - World Health Organization Guidelines

Accuracy Notice

This calculator provides estimates based on standard pediatric fluid calculation methods. Individual patient needs may vary based on clinical condition, comorbidities, and response to therapy. This tool should not be used for infants under 3 months of age or for patients with special fluid requirements (e.g., cardiac, renal, or endocrine disorders).

About the Author

Kumaravel Madhavan

Web developer and data researcher creating accurate, easy-to-use calculators across health, finance, education, and construction and more. Works with subject-matter experts to ensure formulas meet trusted standards like WHO, NIH, and ISO.

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