Normal bicarbonate (HCO3−) range is:

Normal bicarbonate (HCO3−) range is:

• A. 18-22
• B. 22-26
• C. 26-30
• D. 30-34

Answer: (B)

Bicarbonate is the metabolic component of the body's acid-base balance and acts as a major buffer with carbon dioxide. The normal arterial bicarbonate concentration is about 22 to 26 mEq/L (often cited as 24 ± 2). Values below this range point to metabolic acidosis or compensation for a primary respiratory alkalosis, while values above indicate metabolic alkalosis or compensation for a respiratory acidosis. Among the options, 22-26 mEq/L matches the typical normal range.

Bicarbonate is the metabolic component of the body's acid-base balance and acts as a major buffer with carbon dioxide. The normal arterial bicarbonate concentration is about 22 to 26 mEq/L (often cited as 24 ± 2). Values below this range point to metabolic acidosis or compensation for a primary respiratory alkalosis, while values above indicate metabolic alkalosis or compensation for a respiratory acidosis. Among the options, 22-26 mEq/L matches the typical normal range.