American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

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Prepare for the AACN Certification Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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What is the appropriate potassium range in the body?

2.5-4.0
3.0-4.5
3.5-5.0
4.0-5.5

The correct answer is: 3.5-5.0

The appropriate potassium range in the body is considered to be 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. This range is crucial for maintaining normal cellular function, particularly in relation to nerve impulses and muscle contraction, including the heart. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays a vital role in regulating fluid balance, blood pressure, and the conduction of electrical impulses. Maintaining potassium levels within this range is critical; too low (hypokalemia) or too high (hyperkalemia) can lead to significant health issues such as muscle weakness, arrhythmias, or even cardiac arrest. The choice indicating a range of 3.5 to 5.0 reflects the accepted standard for normal potassium levels in the bloodstream. Other ranges provided may fall below or above the medically recognized normal values, highlighting their inappropriateness for characterizing physiological potassium levels in healthy individuals.