Which statement best describes a chloride level of 120 mEq/L in a neonate?

Which statement best describes a chloride level of 120 mEq/L in a neonate?

• A. Within the normal neonatal range
• B. Below the normal neonatal range
• C. Above the normal neonatal range
• D. Indeterminate

Answer: (C)

Chloride helps keep charge balance alongside bicarbonate, and neonates have a reference range roughly in the mid to high 90s up to about 110 mEq/L. A chloride level of 120 mEq/L sits above that range, indicating hyperchloremia. This elevation can occur with metabolic processes that increase chloride load—such as loss of bicarbonate with metabolic acidosis or after receiving large amounts of isotonic saline—and it prompts you to check the acid-base status (bicarbonate and the anion gap) and review fluid management. So, this value describes a chloride level that is above the normal neonatal range.

Chloride helps keep charge balance alongside bicarbonate, and neonates have a reference range roughly in the mid to high 90s up to about 110 mEq/L. A chloride level of 120 mEq/L sits above that range, indicating hyperchloremia. This elevation can occur with metabolic processes that increase chloride load—such as loss of bicarbonate with metabolic acidosis or after receiving large amounts of isotonic saline—and it prompts you to check the acid-base status (bicarbonate and the anion gap) and review fluid management. So, this value describes a chloride level that is above the normal neonatal range.