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Normal Potassium — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardPhysiology - Endocrine & MetabolicNormal PotassiumFRCA Primary

Which plasma potassium concentration is conventionally within the adult reference range?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L

The best answer is “3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L”. An adult potassium concentration around 3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L is conventionally normal, although local laboratory reference ranges vary slightly. Values below this range indicate hypokalaemia and values above it indicate hyperkalaemia, with urgency determined by severity, ECG changes and clinical context.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK, Special circumstances guidelines: https://www.resus.org.uk/professional-library/2025-resuscitation-guidelines/special-circumstances-guidelines