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Arterial Blood Gas (ABG)

Base Excess

Normal range -2–2 mEq/L (-2–2 mmol/L SI). Specimen: Arterial blood (calculated).

Also known as: BE.

-2–2 mEq/LReference range

Reference range

ConventionalmEq/L
-22
SImmol/L
-22
SpecimenArterial blood (calculated)
Conventional range-2–2 mEq/L
SI range-2–2 mmol/L
Conversion factor×1 (conventional → SI)
PanelArterial Blood Gas (ABG)

Convert any Base Excess result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Base Excess?

The standard teaching reference range for Base Excess is -2–2 mEq/L in conventional units, or -2–2 mmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in arterial blood (calculated).

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Base Excess

  • Metabolic alkalosis

Below the range

Common causes of a low Base Excess

  • Metabolic acidosis

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Quantifies the metabolic contribution to acid–base status; negative = base deficit.

Study aid

Your notes on Base Excess

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