What is the typical extracellular concentration of calcium (Ca++) in mEq/L?

The typical extracellular concentration of calcium in the body is approximately 1.2 mEq/L. This concentration is crucial as calcium plays an essential role in various physiological processes, including muscle contraction, neurotransmitter release, and blood coagulation.

In the extracellular fluid, calcium exists in ionic form (Ca++) and is vital for maintaining the stability of cell membranes and facilitating communication between cells. The balance of extracellular calcium is tightly regulated by hormones such as parathyroid hormone and calcitonin, in addition to vitamin D, which helps maintain appropriate levels of calcium in the blood and extracellular fluid.

This specific concentration reflects the body's need for calcium to function correctly while preventing potential disruptions that could occur with either too high or too low levels. Hence, understanding this reference range is fundamental for nursing practice.