Which value is associated with normal base excess?

Base excess is a clinical measurement that reflects the amount of excess or insufficient level of bicarbonate in the bloodstream. It is used to assess the metabolic component of acid-base balance. Normal base excess is generally accepted to range from -2 to +2 mEq/L, with a value of 0 indicating a balanced metabolic state.

A base excess of 0 means that the amount of bicarbonate is in balance with the body's requirements, suggesting that there are no metabolic derangements such as acidosis or alkalosis. In this context, a value of 0 is considered normal and indicates that the metabolic component of the patient's acid-base status is stable.

Values above +2 or below -2 indicate an abnormal base excess, which would point to a metabolic condition that requires further evaluation and intervention. Thus, identifying a base excess of 0 as normal is crucial for understanding a patient’s metabolic health.