Major burns cause systemic capillary leak, hypovolemia, and edema. Restoring intravascular volume in the first 24 hours prevents hypovolemic burn shock.
The Rule of Nines (Adult)
- Head & Neck: 9% (4.5% anterior, 4.5% posterior)
- Anterior Torso (Chest & Abdomen): 18%
- Posterior Torso (Back & Buttocks): 18%
- Each Arm: 9% (4.5% anterior, 4.5% posterior)
- Each Leg: 18% (9% anterior, 9% posterior)
- Perineum/Genitalia: 1%
The Parkland Formula
Calculates the volume of Lactated Ringer's solution required in the first 24 hours from the time of injury.
Formula: 4 mL × Patient's Weight (kg) × TBSA (%) = Total Fluid Volume (24 Hours)
- Give the first 50% (half) of the calculated volume in the first 8 hours.
- Give the remaining 50% over the next 16 hours.
