What is the normal base deficit range?

What is the normal base deficit range?

• A. -2 to 2
• B. -5 to -3
• C. -9 to -6
• D. -10 or more

Answer: (A)

Base deficit shows how much base would need to be added to restore normal pH. In a healthy person, little to no base is required, so the value sits near zero. The normal range is about -2 to +2 mEq/L, meaning values within this window are considered physiologically normal. A positive value beyond this range suggests metabolic acidosis (a deficit of base), while a negative value beyond this range indicates metabolic alkalosis (an excess of base). The other ranges are signs of more significant disturbances, not normal.

Base deficit shows how much base would need to be added to restore normal pH. In a healthy person, little to no base is required, so the value sits near zero. The normal range is about -2 to +2 mEq/L, meaning values within this window are considered physiologically normal. A positive value beyond this range suggests metabolic acidosis (a deficit of base), while a negative value beyond this range indicates metabolic alkalosis (an excess of base). The other ranges are signs of more significant disturbances, not normal.