When you are presented with a collapsed child, it helps to estimate and write down key drugs and equipment you may need.

WETFlAG is one means of preparation:

Note the fluid and glucose bolus dose calculations shown here are according to APLS guidelines; WHO and ETAT+ differ.

Question: Can you use 'WETFlAG' to do the calculations required to resuscitate a 5-year-old child?

Answer

When you are presented with a collapsed child, it helps to estimate and write down key drugs and equipment you may need.

WETFlAG is one means of preparation:

  • Weight = (age+4) x 2 – this is the estimated weight of the child
  • Energy =4 x weight (J) – this is the energy required for defibrillation
  • Tube = age/4 + 4 (approx size of endotracheal tube uncuffed for intubation)
  • Fluids = 20ml/kg of N/Saline bolus
  • Adrenaline = 10mcg/kg = 0.1ml/kg of adrenaline 1:10,000
  • Glucose = 2ml/kg of 10% glucose

Note the fluid and glucose bolus dose calculations shown here are according to APLS guidelines; WHO and ETAT+ differ.

Question: Can you use 'WETFlAG' to do the calculations required to resuscitate a 5-year-old child?

Answer: Table 1 shows the calculations.

Calculations required to resuscitate a 5-year-old child
  • Weight = (5 + 4) x 2 = 18 kg
  • Energy =4 x 18 = 72 J
  • Tube = 5/4 + 4 = size 5, 5.5 or 6
  • Fluids = 20 ml x 18 = 360 ml of N/Saline
  • Adrenaline 0.1 ml/kg = 1.8 ml of adrenaline 1:10 000
  • Glucose = 2 ml x 18= 36 ml of 10% glucose

Table 1 Calculations required to resuscitate a 5-year-old child