Pediatric Dehydration Clinical Score (Gorelick)

Estimate dehydration severity using Gorelick 10-point clinical score (capillary refill, skin turgor, abnormal respirations, absent tears, dry mucous membranes, sunken eyes/fontanelle, abnormal pulse, pulse rate): 0-2=mild, 3-5=moderate, 6-10=severe.

Weight
Height
Clinical Guidance

BMI is a screening measure of body size, not a direct measure of body fat. The standard WHO categories are underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), overweight (25–29.9), and obese (≥30).

BMI can overestimate body fat in athletes with high muscle mass and underestimate it in older adults with low muscle mass. Interpret it alongside waist circumference and clinical context rather than as a standalone diagnosis.

⚕ Clinical Disclaimer: These calculators are for educational and reference purposes only. Always verify results with qualified clinical judgment and current clinical guidelines. Do not use as a sole basis for medical decisions.
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How It Works

Estimate dehydration severity using Gorelick 10-point clinical score (capillary refill, skin turgor, abnormal respirations, absent tears, dry mucous membranes, sunken eyes/fontanelle, abnormal pulse, pulse rate): 0-2=mild, 3-5=moderate, 6-10=severe

Each component has a specific meaning:

  • Skin turgor — The skin turgor recorded for the scenario being assessed.
  • Abnormal respirations — The abnormal respirations recorded for the scenario being assessed.
  • Absent tears — The absent tears recorded for the scenario being assessed.
  • Dry mucous membranes — The dry mucous membranes recorded for the scenario being assessed.
  • Sunken eyes/fontanelle — The sunken eyes/fontanelle recorded for the scenario being assessed.
  • Abnormal pulse — The abnormal pulse recorded for the scenario being assessed.

Note: Interpret the dehydration score result against the thresholds and context described above.

How to Use

Enter the skin turgor, abnormal respirations, absent tears, dry mucous membranes, sunken eyes/fontanelle, abnormal pulse for the scenario you are assessing. Estimate dehydration severity using Gorelick 10-point clinical score (capillary refill, skin turgor, abnormal respirations, absent tears, dry mucous membranes, sunken eyes/fontanelle, abnormal pulse, pulse rate): 0-2=mild, 3-5=moderate, 6-10=severe. Use the dehydration score result to inform your calculation.

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Frequently Asked Questions