Question

A 60-kg client has sustained third-degree burns over 40% of the body. Using the Parkland (Baxter) formula, the minimum fluid requirements are which during the first 24 hours after the burn?

a.1200 mL of 5% dextrose in water solution

b.2400 mL of 0.45% normal saline solution

c.4800 mL of 0.9% normal saline solution
d.9600 mL of lactated Ringer's solution

Answer 1

The correct fluid requirement for a 60-kg burn patient using the Parkland formula is 9600 mL of lactated Ringer's solution over the first 24 hours.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Parkland (Baxter) formula is used for calculating the fluid replacement in burn patients. For a 60-kg adult with 40% total body surface area burns, the formula specifies 4 mL of fluid × body weight in kg × percentage of burned surface area. Therefore, the calculation is as follows: 4 mL/kg × 60 kg × 40% = 9600 mL. This fluid is usually given as lactated Ringer's solution, which is isotonic and closely mimics the composition of body fluids with electrolytes. As per the question, the correct answer is d. 9600 mL of lactated Ringer's solution to be administered during the first 24 hours after the burn.

Lactated Ringer's solution is preferred in this scenario over other options such as 5% dextrose in water (D5W) or normal saline, because it provides a balanced electrolyte content, which is crucial for patients with significant burns who have lost a considerable amount of fluids and electrolytes.