Comparison of the finger counting method, the Broselow tape and common weight estimation formulae in Filipino children after Typhoon Haiyan

Abstract

The Broselow tape and the traditional APLS formula performed best in our sample. The finger counting method also outperformed newer weight estimation formulae. 'Updated' age-based formulae created recently in developed countries should not be used in disaster relief efforts in the Philippines. Caution should be used when applying these formulae to other developing countries and in disaster response.

Finger counting method is more accurate than age‐based weight estimation formulae in estimating the weight of Hong Kong children presenting to the emergency department

“…Consistent with previous studies, the finger counting method was found to be a precise method of weight estimation with a narrow 95% LOA range of 68.2% (95% LOA −34.0% to 34.2%). The finger counting method also has the smallest RMSE when compared to the age‐based weight estimation formulae.…”

“…Third, as height was not routinely measured in the ED, we could not have compared the performance of length‐based weight estimation method such as the Broselow tape against the finger counting method. One study suggested that the Broselow tape outperformed the finger counting method whereas the other study suggested that the finger counting method is as accurate as the Broselow tape . Further studies are necessary to compare the performance of the finger counting method against length‐based weight estimation method such as the Broselow tape or mid‐arm circumference .…”

“…One study conducted in the USA showed the method to be more accurate than the original APLS formula but less accurate than the Luscombe formula . In another study conducted in Filipino children in the disaster setting, the finger counting method was found to be more accurate than the Luscombe and the updated APLS formulae but less accurate than the original APLS formula …”

“…15 In another study conducted in Filipino children in the disaster setting, the finger counting method was found to be more accurate than the Luscombe and the updated APLS formulae but less accurate than the original APLS formula. 16 We therefore sought to conduct a large-scale study to evaluate the performance of the finger counting method and to compare its performance with four commonly used age-based weight estimation formulae in Hong Kong children presenting to the ED.…”

The accuracy of emergency weight estimation systems in children—a systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Limitations: Limited and incomplete data presentation. Young 2015 [ 153 ] 207 Philippines P 1 to 9 years EPLS, APLS, Luscombe, BG, finger counting, Broselow tape None 1 High Findings: Broselow tape performed best in this population, updated APLS formula performed worst. Comments: Broselow tape 2011 edition A.…”