How to Calculate Fluid Loss

Water and nutrients keep the body hydrated, which is important for cell survival. Fluid loss in the body causes dehydration in cells. The body is mainly composed of water. Fluid loss in the body results from dehydration, diarrhea and vomiting. Fluid loss can lead to low blood pressure and cause many complications. It important to restore fluids and hydrate the body in cases of fluid loss. Calculating fluid loss involves a few steps.

Instructions

Calculating fluid loss

• 1

  Calculate body weight in kilograms: 2.2 pounds equal 1 kg.

• 2

  Assess body weight from kilogram to milliliters: 1000 mL is equal to 1 kg.

• 3

  Calculate fluid loss by using the formula of body weight multiplied by estimated percentage of dehydration. Dehydration in the body is assessed by physicians through physical exam of the patient. An example is skin turgor, which is testing for the elasticity of skin surface.