What is the reference range for potassium?

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Multiple Choice

What is the reference range for potassium?

Potassium is a key electrolyte whose serum level is kept within a narrow window to support nerve, muscle, and especially heart function. The usual reference range used in clinical labs is about 3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L. Values in this range are considered normal; lower values point to hypokalemia, which can cause weakness, cramps, and arrhythmias, while higher values indicate hyperkalemia, posing a risk of dangerous heart rhythm problems. The other ranges shown are outside the typical normal range (either too low or too high) for serum potassium in most adults.

Potassium is a key electrolyte whose serum level is kept within a narrow window to support nerve, muscle, and especially heart function. The usual reference range used in clinical labs is about 3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L. Values in this range are considered normal; lower values point to hypokalemia, which can cause weakness, cramps, and arrhythmias, while higher values indicate hyperkalemia, posing a risk of dangerous heart rhythm problems. The other ranges shown are outside the typical normal range (either too low or too high) for serum potassium in most adults.

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