Weight estimation in paediatrics: a comparison of the APLS formula and the formula 'Weight=3(age)+7'

Abstract

Weight estimation is of paramount importance in paediatric resuscitation. This study shows that the current estimation formula provides a significant underestimate of children's weights. When used to calculate drug and fluid dosages, this may lead to the under-resuscitation of a critically ill child. The formula 'Weight=3(age)+7' can be used over a larger age range (from 1 year to puberty) and allows a safe and more accurate estimate of the weight of children today.

Recommendations for Nuclear Medicine Technologists Drawn from an Analysis of Errors Reported in Australian Radiation Incident Registers

“…Weight estimation is used in emergency settings when trauma or pain prevent weighing of the child and active resuscitation is required. The formula given in the Advanced Pediatric Life Support course, which is taken throughout Europe, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, is weight (in kg) 5 (3 · age [in years]) 17, and we recommend that technologists become familiar with this formula (21). We also recommend that pediatric doses be calculated according to the European Association of Nuclear Medicine dosage card (22) or the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging procedure standard (23).…”

Endogenous glucose production from infancy to adulthood: a non-linear regression model

“…Glucose administration with 2.5% or 5% dextrose based saline solution at fluid maintenance rate : To compare EGP, as described by our regression model, with exogenous glucose supplementation using either a 2.5% or 5% dextrose-based saline solution infused at an age-specific fluid maintenance rate, we first calculated estimated body weight from age 1 to 18 years using the Luscombe weight formula29: …”

Just too many things to remember? A survey of paediatric trainees' recall of Advanced Paediatric Life Support (APLS) weight estimation formulae

“…Whereas the study authors concluded that the new formula could be used safely in a UK population from 1 year to puberty,2 APLS limits its use to 6–12 years. We have not been able to find a clear rationale for this approach from a literature search.…”

“…We understand that the introduction of the ‘Luscombe’ formula (3×age in years +7) into APLS was based on a retrospective study which showed that the ‘old’ APLS formulae underestimated children's weights 2. Whereas the study authors concluded that the new formula could be used safely in a UK population from 1 year to puberty,2 APLS limits its use to 6–12 years.…”