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Electrolytes & Minerals
Normal range 22-29 mEq/L (22-29 mmol/L SI). Specimen: Serum or plasma.
Also known as: HCO3, total CO2, carbon dioxide content.
Combined adult band. LabVals does not publish separate men's, women's, or pediatric ranges for Bicarbonate (CO₂ content); those can be narrower than the band shown.
| Specimen | Serum or plasma |
|---|---|
| Conventional range | 22-29 mEq/L |
| SI range | 22-29 mmol/L |
| Conversion factor | ×1 (conventional → SI) |
| Critical value | < 15 or > 40 mmol/L |
| Panel | Electrolytes & Minerals |
Convert any Bicarbonate (CO₂ content) result between units on the unit converter.
The standard teaching reference range for Bicarbonate (CO₂ content) is 22-29 mEq/L in conventional units, or 22-29 mmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum or plasma.
For Bicarbonate (CO₂ content), the commonly taught critical (panic) value is: < 15 or > 40 mmol/L. Critical results are reported to the provider immediately under your facility's policy.
Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population - always use the range printed on the actual result.
Above the range
What causes a high Bicarbonate (CO₂ content)? Read as its own page
Below the range
What causes a low Bicarbonate (CO₂ content)? Read as its own page
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