Normal range 22-26 mEq/L (22-26 mmol/L SI). Specimen: Arterial blood (calculated).
Also known as: bicarbonate, actual bicarbonate.
22-26 mEq/LCritical value: read below
Reference range
ConventionalmEq/L
2226
SImmol/L
2226
Combined adult band. LabVals does not publish separate men's, women's, or pediatric ranges for HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate); those can be narrower than the band shown.
HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate) reference range, specimen, and conversion details
Convert any HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate) result between units on the unit converter.
What is the normal range for HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate)?
The standard teaching reference range for HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate) is 22-26 mEq/L in conventional units, or 22-26 mmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in arterial blood (calculated).
What is a critical HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate) value?
For HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate), the commonly taught critical (panic) value is: < 15 or > 40 mEq/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.
The metabolic (kidney) component of acid-base balance.
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