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Arterial Blood Gas (ABG)

HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate)

Normal range 22–26 mEq/L (22–26 mmol/L SI). Specimen: Arterial blood (calculated).

Also known as: bicarbonate, actual bicarbonate.

22–26 mEq/LCritical: read below

Reference range

ConventionalmEq/L
2226
SImmol/L
2226
SpecimenArterial blood (calculated)
Conventional range22–26 mEq/L
SI range22–26 mmol/L
Conversion factor×1 (conventional → SI)
Critical value< 15 or > 40 mEq/L
PanelArterial Blood Gas (ABG)

Convert any HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate) result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate)?

The standard teaching reference range for HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate) is 22–26 mEq/L in conventional units, or 22–26 mmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in arterial blood (calculated).

A commonly taught critical (panic) value is < 15 or > 40 mEq/L. Critical results are reported to the provider immediately under your facility's policy.

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 HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate)

  • Metabolic alkalosis
  • Compensation for respiratory acidosis

Below the range

Common causes of a low HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate)

  • Metabolic acidosis
  • Compensation for respiratory alkalosis

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • The metabolic (kidney) component of acid–base balance.

Study aid

Your notes on HCO₃⁻ (Arterial Bicarbonate)

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