Calculating GFR in Pediatrics: Any Tips and Tricks?

Hey everyone, I'm a pediatric nurse looking to brush up on my knowledge of calculating GFR in children. I know there are a few different formulas out there, and I'm wondering if anyone has any experience or recommendations for which one to use in different situations. Any tips or resources would be greatly appreciated!

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Hi PedsNursePam, great question! For children, the most commonly used formula is the Schwartz estimate, which takes into account the child's height and serum creatinine level. However, for infants under 1 year old, the Bedside Schwartz estimate may be more accurate. It's also worth noting that the CKiD formula was developed specifically for children with chronic kidney disease. I hope that helps!

Just to add to that, PedsNursePam, it's important to remember that all of these formulas are just estimates and may not be accurate for every child. It's always best to consult with a pediatric nephrologist if you have any concerns about a child's kidney function. And don't forget to use the most recent creatinine values when calculating GFR, as this can affect the accuracy of the estimate.

I also wanted to mention, PedsNursePam, that there are some online calculators and smartphone apps that can help you quickly and easily calculate GFR in children. Just make sure to double-check the formulas being used and the units of measurement to ensure accuracy. And as always, if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.