Broselow Tape Weight Estimator

The Broselow Tape is a color-coded emergency pediatric measuring tape that estimates a child’s weight from their length, enabling rapid drug dosing and equipment sizing in emergency situations when actual weight measurement is not possible. Developed by Dr. James Broselow in the 1980s, it has become the standard tool for pediatric emergency preparedness worldwide. The tape is endorsed by the American Heart Association (AHA) and used in PALS training programs globally.

How the Broselow System Works

The tape is laid alongside the child (head at the zero mark) and the color zone at the foot determines the weight estimate. Each color zone corresponds to a pre-calculated weight range and has associated drug doses, fluid boluses, and equipment sizes. This system eliminates the need for calculations during stressful resuscitations — everything is pre-printed on the tape or on color-coded reference cards.

Broselow Color Zones

• Grey: 3–5 kg (newborn/small infant)
• Pink: 5–7 kg (infant)
• Red: 7–9 kg (older infant)
• Purple: 9–11 kg (toddler)
• Yellow: 11–14 kg (toddler)
• White: 14–18 kg (young child)
• Blue: 18–23 kg (child)
• Orange: 23–29 kg (older child)
• Green: 29–36 kg (pre-adolescent)

Broselow Tape Weight Estimator

Written by Dr. Michael Anderson, MD (Pediatrics) | Medically approved by Dr. Ahmed Raza, MD (Pediatrics) | Updated for 2026

Disclaimer: This calculator is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician.

Pediatric clinical calculators are essential tools for healthcare providers, but understanding the underlying formulas, clinical context, and safety considerations is equally important. This Broselow Tape Weight Estimator provides fast, accurate calculations based on validated pediatric reference standards, but effective clinical use requires more than just entering numbers—it requires understanding when and how to apply the results in real patient care.

Clinical background and context

This tool is designed for use in clinical settings including emergency departments, pediatric wards, intensive care units, and outpatient clinics. Pediatric patients differ significantly from adults in pharmacokinetics, fluid requirements, growth patterns, and disease presentation. Reference ranges, formulas, and safety thresholds that work for adults often require adjustment for children based on weight, age, and developmental stage.

How to use this calculator effectively

1. Gather accurate patient data: Weight should be measured on a calibrated scale, not estimated.
2. Verify the formula being used: Confirm which standard your facility follows.
3. Check for contraindications: Some calculations may need adjustment for renal impairment, cardiac disease, or other comorbidities.
4. Document the calculation: Record the input values and result in the medical record for transparency and safety.
5. Double-check critical values: For high-risk medications or interventions, always verify with a second clinician.

Safety considerations and limitations

While this tool is designed for accuracy, it should be used as part of a comprehensive safety protocol. Always apply clinical judgment, follow institutional protocols, and consult with qualified healthcare professionals when making patient care decisions.