Components of Basic Metabolic Panel and Common Electrolyte Tests

Question 1

Sodium (Na+) range

Answer 1

136 - 145 mmol/L

crucial for maintaining fluid balance and nerve impulse conduction

Question 2

Potassium (K+) range

Answer 2

3.5 - 5.1 mmol/L

crucial for maintaining normal heart and kidney function and acid-base balance

Question 3

Chloride (Cl-) range

Answer 3

98 - 109 mmol/L

crucial for maintaining serum osmolarity and acid-base balance

Question 4

Hypernatremia

Answer 4

Abnormally high levels of sodium.

Dehydration from excessive water loss or fluid restriction

Question 5

Hyponatremia

Answer 5

Abnormally low levels of sodium.

overhydration or abnormal secretion of antidiuretic hormone

Question 6

Hyperkalemia

Answer 6

Abnormally high levels of potassium

Question 7

Hypokalemia

Answer 7

Abnormally low levels of potassium

Question 8

Hyperchloremia

Answer 8

Excessive Cl- administration

Question 9

Hypochloremia

Answer 9

Abnormally low levels of Cl-