Chloride (Cl⁻)
Normal 98–106 mEq/LWhy it matters
Sodium's shadow and the acid-base sidekick — moves with Na, inverse to bicarb.
LOW — Hypochloremia (< 98)
Causes
Signs
Nursing actions
- Track NG output volumes — that's where the chloride went
- Anticipate NS-based replacement
HIGH — Hyperchloremia (> 106)
Causes
Signs
Nursing actions
- Flag multi-liter NS days on rounds — hyperchloremic acidosis is a known consequence; balanced fluids may be preferred
Source: Ignatavicius, Medical-Surgical Nursing, 10th ed.Reference only — verify against your facility's policy.
