Which parameter has a normal range of 3.5-5.0 mEq/L?

Which parameter has a normal range of 3.5-5.0 mEq/L?

• A. Calcium
• B. Potassium
• C. Albumin
• D. Sodium

Answer: (B)

Potassium is the major intracellular cation, and its serum level is kept tightly within about 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. This narrow range matters because small changes can significantly affect muscle function and, most critically, heart rhythm. Potassium is measured in milliequivalents per liter, reflecting both concentration and charge. When levels drop below 3.5 or rise above 5.0, you can see dangerous effects on the heart and muscles. Other electrolytes have different typical units and ranges: calcium is usually in mg/dL (roughly 8.5–10.5 mg/dL), albumin in g/dL (about 3.5–5.0 g/dL), and sodium in mEq/L (about 135–145 mEq/L). Therefore, the parameter with a normal range of 3.5–5.0 mEq/L is potassium.

Potassium is the major intracellular cation, and its serum level is kept tightly within about 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. This narrow range matters because small changes can significantly affect muscle function and, most critically, heart rhythm. Potassium is measured in milliequivalents per liter, reflecting both concentration and charge. When levels drop below 3.5 or rise above 5.0, you can see dangerous effects on the heart and muscles. Other electrolytes have different typical units and ranges: calcium is usually in mg/dL (roughly 8.5–10.5 mg/dL), albumin in g/dL (about 3.5–5.0 g/dL), and sodium in mEq/L (about 135–145 mEq/L). Therefore, the parameter with a normal range of 3.5–5.0 mEq/L is potassium.