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

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What is the normal range for HCO3 in arterial blood gas (ABG) testing?

  1. 20-26 mEq/L

  2. 22-28 mEq/L

  3. 25-30 mEq/L

  4. 21-26 mEq/L

The correct answer is: 22-28 mEq/L

The normal range for HCO3 (bicarbonate) in arterial blood gas (ABG) testing is typically considered to be between 22 to 28 mEq/L. Bicarbonate is an important buffer in the blood, helping to maintain the body's acid-base balance. It plays a key role in metabolic processes and is a significant component in assessing the metabolic status of a patient. Values outside this range can indicate various metabolic disorders. For example, low bicarbonate levels may suggest metabolic acidosis, where there is an increase in acid or a loss of bicarbonate from the body. Conversely, elevated bicarbonate levels can indicate metabolic alkalosis, which may occur due to excessive bicarbonate intake or loss of acids. Understanding the normal range for HCO3 is critical for healthcare professionals when interpreting ABG results, guiding treatment decisions, and managing critically ill patients effectively.

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