What is the normal range for potassium in mEq/L?

What is the normal range for potassium in mEq/L?

• A. 4.5-5.5
• B. 3.5-4.5
• C. 2.5-3.5
• D. 5.0-6.0

Answer: (B)

Potassium is the major intracellular cation and its serum level is tightly regulated. In many NBRC practice references, the normal adult range is 3.5 to 4.5 mEq/L. This range best represents what is considered physiologically normal for clinical assessment. Values below 3.5 indicate hypokalemia, while values above 4.5 indicate hyperkalemia; both conditions can affect muscle and cardiac function. The other ranges are outside this commonly cited normal window, making them incorrect for this question.

Potassium is the major intracellular cation and its serum level is tightly regulated. In many NBRC practice references, the normal adult range is 3.5 to 4.5 mEq/L. This range best represents what is considered physiologically normal for clinical assessment. Values below 3.5 indicate hypokalemia, while values above 4.5 indicate hyperkalemia; both conditions can affect muscle and cardiac function. The other ranges are outside this commonly cited normal window, making them incorrect for this question.