Pediatric Maintenance Fluid Calculator
Calculate the appropriate maintenance fluid requirements for pediatric patients based on their weight using the standard pediatric fluid calculation formula.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the patient's weight in either kilograms or pounds
- Select the appropriate weight unit
- Adjust the dehydration factor if the patient is dehydrated (optional)
- Click Calculate to see the maintenance fluid requirements
- Review the results including daily, hourly, and per-minute fluid rates
Formula Used
Daily Fluids = 100 mL/kg for first 10 kg + 50 mL/kg for next 10 kg + 20 mL/kg for remaining weight
Where:
- First 10 kg = 100 mL/kg/day
- Next 10 kg (11-20 kg) = 50 mL/kg/day
- Weight above 20 kg = 20 mL/kg/day
- Hourly Rate = Daily Fluids ÷ 24 hours
- Dehydration Adjustment = Daily Fluids × (1 + Dehydration Factor/100)
Example Calculation
Real-World Scenario:
A 3-year-old child weighing 15 kg needs maintenance fluids for hospitalization.
Given:
- Weight = 15 kg
- Dehydration Factor = 0% (no dehydration)
Calculation:
First 10 kg: 10 kg × 100 mL/kg = 1000 mL
Next 5 kg: 5 kg × 50 mL/kg = 250 mL
Total Daily Fluids: 1000 mL + 250 mL = 1250 mL
Hourly Rate: 1250 mL ÷ 24 hours = 52.1 mL/hour
Result: The child requires 1250 mL of fluids per day, or approximately 52.1 mL per hour.
Why This Calculation Matters
Clinical Applications
- Preventing dehydration in hospitalized children
- Establishing baseline fluid requirements
- Guiding IV fluid therapy in pediatric patients
- Managing fluid balance in various clinical conditions
Key Benefits
- Standardized approach to pediatric fluid management
- Reduces risk of fluid overload or underhydration
- Quick reference for healthcare providers
- Adjustable for special clinical situations
Common Mistakes & Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
References & Disclaimer
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
References
- Pediatric Fluid Management - NCBI Bookshelf - Comprehensive guide to pediatric fluid therapy including maintenance requirements
- American Academy of Pediatrics - Pediatric Fluid Guidelines - Clinical practice guidelines for fluid management in children
- UpToDate - Pediatric Fluid and Electrolyte Therapy - Evidence-based review of fluid therapy in pediatric patients
Accuracy Notice
This calculator provides estimates based on standard pediatric maintenance fluid formulas. Individual patient needs may vary based on clinical conditions, comorbidities, and other factors. Healthcare providers should use clinical judgment when determining fluid requirements for pediatric patients.
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.