Why To Use
The Parkland formula has been endorsed by the American Burn Association. It has been shown to appropriately restore intravascular volume and limit the development of hypovolemic shock.
When To Use
Next Steps
Resuscitation endpoints and monitoring:
David Zodda, MD
Critically ill burn patients are best cared for at a dedicated burn center, particularly those who have any of the following:
It is important to remember that all resuscitation formulas should only be used as guides. Patients should be assessed frequently, with individual adjustments made to maintain adequate organ perfusion.
Blumetti et al (2008) conducted a retrospective study of patients resuscitated with the Parkland formula at a single institution over 15 years to determine the accuracy of the formula in guiding resuscitation. Using urine output as a guideline for adequate resuscitation, they found that patients commonly received fluid volumes higher than predicted by the Parkland formula, and concluded that the formula should represent a resuscitation “starting point,” but urine output is the most important parameter to control resuscitation volume.
Cartotto et al (2002) performed a retrospective study, and also found that the Parkland formula underestimated the volume requirements in most adults with burns, especially in those with large full-thickness burns. Thus, the Parkland formula is a validated and effective approach to initial fluid resuscitation in the acutely burned patient (Baxter 1974, Cartotto 2002, Blumetti 2008).
Charles Baxter, MD
Original/Primary Reference
Validation Reference
Other References
Hilary Fairbrother, MD, MPH, FACEP; Megan Long, MD; Elizabeth Haines, DO, MAS, FACEP
Melissa L. Langhan, MD, MHS, FAAP
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2023   CME Information
4 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits.™ Specialty CME Credits: Included as part of the 4 credits, this CME activity is eligible for 4 Trauma CME credits, subject to your state and institutional approval.
Price: $99
+4 Credits!
Hilary Fairbrother, MD, MPH, FACEP; Megan Long, MD; Elizabeth Haines, DO, MAS, FACEP
Melissa L. Langhan, MD, MHS, FAAP
June 30, 2020
June 30, 2023
4 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits.™ Specialty CME Credits: Included as part of the 4 credits, this CME activity is eligible for 4 Trauma CME credits, subject to your state and institutional approval.
Urgent Care Management of Patients With Thermal Burns
Pediatric Electrical Injuries in the Emergency Department: An Evidence-Based Review (Trauma CME)
Emergency Department Management of Patients With Thermal Burns