Sodium (Na+)
BMP / ElectrolytesNormal range
136–145 mEq/L
SI: 136–145 mmol/L
Critical low: < 120 mEq/L · Critical high: > 160 mEq/L
☎ When to call
Na < 125 with any neuro change, < 120 regardless, or > 155 — call the provider. New confusion in a hyponatremic patient is an emergency, not a trend to watch.
What you do
- Neuro checks are your monitor — confusion, lethargy, headache, seizure risk
- Correct SLOWLY: too-fast correction of chronic hyponatremia risks osmotic demyelination
- Seizure precautions below ~120
- Strict I&O; daily weights
Causes of HIGH sodium
Causes of LOW sodium
Source: Pagana, Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, 7th ed.Reference only — verify against your facility's policy.
