Which electrolyte value is outside the normal range?

Which electrolyte value is outside the normal range?

• A. Potassium 4 mEq/L
• B. Sodium 150 mEq/L
• C. Magnesium 1.5 mEq/L
• D. Calcium 9.5 mg/dL

Answer: (B)

Normal ranges for electrolytes help you spot imbalances that may need attention. Sodium typically runs about 135–145 mEq/L. A value of 150 mEq/L is higher than normal, which is hypernatremia and can reflect dehydration, excessive sodium intake, or problems with water balance. Potassium around 4 mEq/L fits well within the common 3.5–5.0 mEq/L range, so it’s normal. Magnesium near 1.5 mEq/L is generally considered normal, lying at or just above the lower end of typical references (often about 1.3–2.1). Calcium at 9.5 mg/dL also falls within the standard 8.5–10.5 mg/dL range. Because only the sodium value exceeds its normal limit, it’s the one outside the expected range.

Normal ranges for electrolytes help you spot imbalances that may need attention. Sodium typically runs about 135–145 mEq/L. A value of 150 mEq/L is higher than normal, which is hypernatremia and can reflect dehydration, excessive sodium intake, or problems with water balance. Potassium around 4 mEq/L fits well within the common 3.5–5.0 mEq/L range, so it’s normal. Magnesium near 1.5 mEq/L is generally considered normal, lying at or just above the lower end of typical references (often about 1.3–2.1). Calcium at 9.5 mg/dL also falls within the standard 8.5–10.5 mg/dL range. Because only the sodium value exceeds its normal limit, it’s the one outside the expected range.