AEMCA Practice Exam

What lab value indicates hypokalemia?

1. Below 2.5 mEq/dL

2. Above 3.5 mEq/dL

3. Below 3.5 mEq/dL

4. Between 3.0 and 3.5 mEq/dL

The correct answer is: Below 3.5 mEq/dL

To indicate hypokalemia, the correct lab value falls below 3.5 mEq/dL. Hypokalemia is a condition where potassium levels in the blood are lower than normal, which can lead to various health issues such as muscle weakness, arrhythmias, and fatigue. Typically, a normal potassium level ranges from approximately 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/dL. When the potassium level drops below this normal threshold, particularly falling under 3.5 mEq/dL, it signals that the patient is experiencing hypokalemia. Levels can become severely low if they drop significantly below this point, which may result in more pronounced symptoms and complications. Thus, understanding the threshold of 3.5 mEq/dL is essential for identifying hypokalemia and managing it appropriately in clinical settings.