Using the 4-2-1 maintenance fluid rule, what is the hourly rate for a 6 kg child?

Using the 4-2-1 maintenance fluid rule, what is the hourly rate for a 6 kg child?

• A. 12 mL/hr
• B. 6 mL/hr
• C. 24 mL/hr
• D. 48 mL/hr

Answer: (C)

For a child under 10 kg, the maintenance fluid rate uses 4 mL per kg per hour. With a weight of 6 kg, multiply 6 by 4 to get 24 mL per hour. So the hourly maintenance fluid rate is 24 mL/hr. The other numbers result from applying incorrect parts of the rule or a different weight, but the correct approach for 6 kg is 24 mL/hr.

For a child under 10 kg, the maintenance fluid rate uses 4 mL per kg per hour. With a weight of 6 kg, multiply 6 by 4 to get 24 mL per hour. So the hourly maintenance fluid rate is 24 mL/hr. The other numbers result from applying incorrect parts of the rule or a different weight, but the correct approach for 6 kg is 24 mL/hr.