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Kilograms to Pounds (kg to lbs) Converter

Convert between kilograms and pounds with precise conversion factor. Both directions supported with adjustable decimal precision for clinical accuracy.

Jump to:Calculator|How it works|Formula|Examples|FAQs|References & Sources

How Weight Conversion Works

The kilogram (kg) is the SI standard unit of mass used in most countries. The pound (lb) is the imperial unit used primarily in the United States, UK (alongside stones), and some other countries. The conversion between them uses the internationally defined factor: 1 kg = 2.20462 lbs. This precise ratio ensures accuracy for clinical calculations, especially in dose calculations based on weight (e.g., mg/kg).

Formulas

kg → lbs: lbs = kg × 2.20462
lbs → kg: kg = lbs ÷ 2.20462

Worked Examples

Example 1: Convert 70 kg to lbs (typical adult male)

1

lbs = 70 × 2.20462

2

lbs = 154.3

Answer: 154.3 lbs

Example 2: Convert 150 lbs to kg (patient weight in hospital)

1

kg = 150 ÷ 2.20462

2

kg = 68.0

Answer: 68.0 kg

Example 3: Convert 25 kg to lbs (paediatric patient)

1

lbs = 25 × 2.20462

2

lbs = 55.1

Answer: 55.1 lbs

When This Converter Is Used

  • •Converting patient weight for medication dosing (especially mg/kg calculations)
  • •International patient transfers between metric and imperial systems
  • •Paediatric dosing calculations where weight-based accuracy is critical

Clinical safety note: Always use current, accurate patient weight. For critical medications, verify the conversion and have another provider confirm before administration.

Related Calculators

mcg ↔ mg

Micrograms to Milligrams

g ↔ mg

Grams to Milligrams

BMI

Body Mass Index

Paediatric Dosing

Weight-based calculations

Frequently Asked Questions

Clinical reminder: Always follow local protocols and consult medication information sheets. These examples are for calculation practice only.

References & Sources

These sources establish the kg-to-lbs conversion factor and weight standards used in clinical practice.

Australia

National Measurement Institute Australia — SI Units

Australian standard body for weights and measures.

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United States

NIST — US standard for weight conversion

Official US standards for weight measurements and SI unit adoption.

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United Kingdom

NPL — UK National Physical Laboratory

UK authority on measurement standards and weight conversion.

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