What is the calculation for maintenance fluid requirements for a child weighing more than 20 kg?

The calculation for maintenance fluid requirements in a child who weighs more than 20 kg follows a specific formula that adds a base amount for the first 20 kg and a variable amount for any additional weight. The choice indicating that maintenance fluid requirements consist of 1500 mL plus 20 mL for each kilogram over 20 kg correctly reflects this.

To break it down:

1. For the first 20 kg of body weight, the maintenance needs are set at 1500 mL.

2. For every kilogram that a child weighs beyond 20 kg, an additional 20 mL is added to the maintenance fluid total.

This method ensures that children above 20 kg receive adequate hydration tailored to their higher body weight.

Other potential methods, such as calculating maintenance fluids based solely on a standard formula or maximum limits, do not accommodate children with weights exceeding 20 kg as accurately and can lead to either under or over hydration risks. The chosen formula allows for a more precise and individualized approach to fluid management in pediatric patients.