Normal laboratory values for adults

Potassium:

3.5–5.0 mEq/L

Sodium:

135–145 mEq/L

Chloride:

98–106 mEq/L

Bicarbonate (HCO3):

21–28 mEq/L

Calcium:

9.0–10.5 mg/dL

Magnesium:

1.3–2.1 mEq/L

Phosphate:

2.5–4.5 mg/dL

pH:

7.35–7.45

PaCO2:

35–45 mm Hg

Active Transport:

Uses energy (ATP) to move electrolytes across cell membranes against a concentration gradient

Diffusion:

Passive movement of particles down a concentration gradient (high to low).

Osmosis:

Movement of water from an area of low particle concentration to an area of higher particle concentration.

Filtration:

Movement of fluid in and out of capillaries between vascular and interstitial compartments based on hydrostatic and osmotic pressures.

ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone):

Secreted by the posterior pituitary; causes the body to retain water, regulating osmolality.

RAAS (Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System):

Regulates ECF volume. Renin leads to the release of Aldosterone, which causes the kidneys to remove sodium and water from tubules and return them to the blood.

ANP (Atrial Natriuretic Peptides):

Released by heart atria when they are stretched by increased ECF volume; increases the loss of sodium and water in urine.