Adult: 96–106 mEq/L; SI units: 96–106 mmol/L
Child: 90–110 mEq/L; SI units: 90–110 mmol/L
Critical levels: <80 mEq/L or >115 mEq/L
. Red-top or green-top tube.
■ Aids in maintenance of electrical neutrality, fluid and acidbase
balance, and osmolality of body fluids (with sodium).
Assessed with other electrolytes.
■ Decreased in vomiting, gastric suctioning, ketoacidosis, renal
disease with loss of sodium.
■ Increased with diarrhea, dehydration, total parenteral
nutrition.
