Which value is associated with normal base excess?

Normal base excess values typically range from -2 to +2 mEq/L. A base excess of 0 indicates a normal acid-base status in the body where neither acidosis nor alkalosis predominates. This value suggests that there is a balance between metabolic processes and the body's buffering systems.

A base excess of -2 indicates a slight metabolic acidosis, while +2 reflects a mild metabolic alkalosis. Therefore, the value that represents a perfectly balanced status, which is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the body, is zero. This value is essential for critical care paramedics to recognize as it aids in assessing a patient’s acid-base balance, guiding treatment decisions, and evaluating the overall metabolic condition of patients in emergency situations.