A BURN FORMULA IN CLINICAL-PRACTICE

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 63  (1) , 50-53
Abstract
In a retrospective review of 1969-1978, i.v. plasma loads given to patients admitted to 1 burn center were studied and compared with volumes predicted by the formula used at that center. Of 1728 patients admitted, 342 (19.8%) received i.v. resuscitation with plasma. The formula appeared to be a good empirical guide to transfusion needs in the 36 h after burning. Patients with burns in excess of 45% body surface area (BSA), particularly children, required more fluid than indicated by the formula estimate. As burns in excess of 50% BSA were uncommon (50 of 1728 admissions) it seemed reasonable to use a formula which was a guide to the probable needs of most patients while accepting the clinical response as the best means of assessing the actual fluid need of each patient, especially those with extensive injury.