Pediatric EER Equation:
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The Pediatric Estimated Energy Requirements (EER) equation calculates daily energy needs for children based on weight and growth factor. It provides an estimate of the calories required to support normal growth and development in pediatric patients.
The calculator uses the Pediatric EER equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation accounts for basal metabolic needs plus additional energy required for normal growth and development in children.
Details: Accurate EER estimation is crucial for ensuring proper nutrition support, monitoring growth patterns, and preventing both undernutrition and overnutrition in pediatric patients.
Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, age in years, and appropriate growth factor based on age and clinical condition. All values must be valid positive numbers.
Q1: What is the growth factor and how is it determined?
A: The growth factor represents additional energy needs for normal growth and varies by age, typically ranging from 20-35 kcal/kg/day for infants and decreasing with age.
Q2: For what age range is this equation appropriate?
A: This equation is typically used for children from infancy through adolescence, though specific coefficients may vary by age group.
Q3: How does this differ from adult energy requirements?
A: Pediatric equations include additional factors for growth and development that are not present in adult energy requirement calculations.
Q4: Are there clinical conditions that affect EER?
A: Yes, various medical conditions, activity levels, and metabolic states can significantly alter energy requirements beyond the standard calculation.
Q5: Should this be used for critically ill children?
A: For critically ill or hospitalized children, more comprehensive nutritional assessment and specialized equations may be needed to account for metabolic stress.