Comparison of weight estimation methods and evaluation of usability of Broselow Luten tape in Turkish children

Özet

It is controversial which method is more reliable for weight estimation of achild in an emergent situation. The aim of this study is to compare differentmethods and to review the applicability of Broselow Luten tape for Turkishchildren. This study was performed prospectively in patients presenting topediatric emergency department. Weight estimation of patients were performedby parent, physician, nurse and Broselow Luten tape. Finally actual weightand height of the patient were measured. A total of 438 patients were eligiblefor the study. All estimates have a reliable correlation with actual weight.However, parent estimation is better followed by Broselow Luten tape.Correlation decreases as the weight of the child increases. When emergentcare of an acutely ill child is necessary, parental estimation of the weightcan be used. If it is unattainable, Broselow Luten tape can be reliably usedinstead of other methods especially in patients with lower weight.