Normal Electrolyte Lab Values: Potassium (K)

Normal Electrolyte Lab Values
It is important to know normal electrolyte lab values and be familiar with the
ranges for varying ions. This is helpful in recognizing abnormal lab values, as well
as helping assess which organ systems may be affected. Disclaimer: The reference
ranges in this resource are based on the most current, best-available evidence.
However, variability of reference ranges may appear from various resources.
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Potassium (K+)
Banana
Potassium is the major cation inside of cells and helps to create membrane potential, which helps in neurotransmission, heart function, and muscle
contraction. Potassium is regulated in renal function.
3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L

(3) Tree (.5) Hand to (5) Hand
Normal serum potassium levels range from 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Patients with serum values below 3.5 are hypokalemic and can develop U-waves,
weakness, and constipation. Patients with values above 5.0 are considered hyperkalemic and can display weakness, diarrhea, cramping, and
arrhythmias with T-waves.
Calcium (Ca2+)
Calcium-cow
Calcium serves a wide array of functions in the body, working in signal transduction, muscle contraction, neurotransmission, vasodilation, and
hormone secretion. The normal range for serum calcium is 8.5-10.5 mg/dL.
8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL

(8) Ball (.5) Hand to (10) Tin (.5) Hand
The normal range for serum calcium is 8.5-10.5 mg/dL. Hypocalcemic patients can display depression, hallucinations, tingling, and paresthesias, which
can further progress to arrhythmias and myocardial infarction. Hypercalcemic patients may develop nausea and vomiting, which can progress to
cerebellar ataxia and coma if the condition worsens or is not corrected.
Phosphate (PO 3–)

4
Phosphate-P
Phosphorous is a key component of DNA and RNA and is used extensively to transport cellular energy in ATP. It mainly exists as a phosphate ion in
humans, and the normal serum value of phosphate is between 2.5-4.5 mg/dL.
2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL

(2) Tutu (.5) Hand to (4) Fork (.5) Hand
The normal serum value for serum phosphate is 2.5-4.5 mg/dL. Hypophosphatemia can manifest as muscle and neurological dysfunction as well as
disruption of muscle and blood cells due to lack of ATP. Conversely, hyperphosphatemic patients can present with diarrhea and calcification
(hardening) of organs. Additionally, soft tissues can show a decreased ability to use iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
Magnesium (Mg2+)
Magnesium-magazine
The normal serum value for magnesium is 1.5 to 2.5 mEq/L. This electrolyte is important in cellular function and affects cardiovascular function,
dreaming, muscle contraction, and insulin regulation.
1.5 to 2.5 mEq/L

(1) Wand (.5) Hand to (2) Tutu (.5) Hand
Normal magnesium serum levels range between 1.5 to 2.5 mEq/L. Patients with hypomagnesemia show muscle weakness, increased reflexes, and
tetany, and can develop convulsions. On the other hand, those with hypermagnesemia show bradycardia and flushing at mildly increased levels. As
hypermagnesemia increases, patients can present with flaccid paralysis and EKG changes. At magnesium levels above 15, respiratory arrest and
asystole occur.
Sodium (Na+)
Salt-shaker
Sodium is a major contributor to cell osmolality and overall body water balance. Sodium is also important in neuroconduction and muscle contraction.
135 to 145 mEq/L

135-sleigh to 145-reindeer
Normal sodium serum values range from 135-145 mEq/L. Patients with hyponatremia show symptoms of lethargy, anorexia, muscle cramping, and
nausea. Those with hypernatremia display increased thirst, muscle twitching, hyperreflexia, and seizures. Hypernatremia can also progress to coma.
Chloride (Cl–)
Chlorine-dispenser
Chloride is an important anion in the body and is essential to maintaining acid-base homeostasis along with cellular metabolism. Furthermore,
chloride plays a role in neuronal firing, as it interacts with GABA transport. Chloride is tightly controlled by the kidney, and the normal serum range is
from 95-105 mEq/L.
95 to 105 mEq/L
95-pool to 105-pool
Normal chloride levels in the serum range from 95-105 mEq/L. Decreased chloride may be seen in patients with metabolic alkalosis, whereas
increased chloride levels may be observed in those with respiratory or metabolic acidosis.
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Normal Electrolyte Lab Values

3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L

8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL

Phosphate (PO 3–)

2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL

1.5 to 2.5 mEq/L

135 to 145 mEq/L

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