Which healthy range represents bicarbonate (HCO3)?

The healthy range for bicarbonate (HCO3) in the blood is typically recognized to fall within the values of 22-28 mEq/L, but the most accurate choice given the options is the range of 18.4-25.6 mEq/L. Bicarbonate is a crucial buffer in the body that helps maintain the acid-base balance by neutralizing excess acids, thus offering an essential role in respiratory and metabolic processes.

Values that fall within this range support proper metabolic function and indicate a normal physiological response to various homeostatic changes. When bicarbonate levels are outside this range, it can suggest imbalances in acid-base status, which could be due to metabolic conditions or respiratory disorders.

The other provided ranges for bicarbonate are either too high or too low. The options like 10-15 mEq/L are significantly lower than the typical physiological levels and would often indicate acidosis, while ranges like 30-40 mEq/L would suggest alkalosis—both of which are not compatible with healthy physiological function.