HCO₃⁻ (arterial)
ABGNormal range
22–26 mEq/L
SI: 22–26 mmol/L
Critical low: < 15 mEq/L · Critical high: > 40 mEq/L
☎ When to call
Escalate as part of the ABG picture with pH — see pH card.
What you do
- The METABOLIC number — it moves WITH pH in metabolic problems
- Low HCO₃: hunt the cause — glucose/ketones, lactate, creatinine
Causes of HIGH hco₃⁻
Causes of LOW hco₃⁻
Source: Pagana, Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, 7th ed.Reference only — verify against your facility's policy.
