Clinical Chemistry Reference Ranges Every CLS Should Know

Essential Chemistry Reference Ranges

Memorizing these key chemistry reference ranges will serve you well in daily practice and on certification exams.

Electrolytes

Sodium: 135-145 mEq/L. Potassium: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. Chloride: 95-105 mEq/L. CO2: 22-30 mEq/L. Calcium: 8.5-10.5 mg/dL. Magnesium: 1.5-2.5 mEq/L. Phosphorus: 2.5-4.5 mg/dL.

Kidney Function

BUN: 5-15 mg/dL. Creatinine: 0.6-1.2 mg/dL (males). eGFR: >60 mL/min/1.73m2. Uric Acid: 3.0-7.0 mg/dL.

Liver Enzymes

ALT: 10-40 U/L. AST: 10-40 U/L. ALP: 44-147 U/L. GGT: 0-30 U/L. Total Bilirubin: 0.1-1.0 mg/dL. Albumin: 3.5-5.0 g/dL. Total Protein: 6.0-8.3 g/dL.

Cardiac Markers

Troponin I: <0.04 ng/mL. CK-MB: 0-10 ng/mL. BNP: <100 pg/mL. LDH: 140-280 U/L.