Chloride (Cl−)
BMP / ElectrolytesNormal range
98–106 mEq/L
SI: 98–106 mmol/L
Critical low: < 80 mEq/L · Critical high: > 115 mEq/L
☎ When to call
Rarely escalated alone — escalate the sodium, acid-base, or volume problem it travels with.
What you do
- Usually moves with sodium — interpret them together
- High Cl after lots of NS? Flag it — hyperchloremic acidosis is a real thing on rounds
Causes of HIGH chloride
Causes of LOW chloride
Source: Pagana, Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, 7th ed.Reference only — verify against your facility's policy.
