What is the normal pH range for human blood?

The normal pH range for human blood is indeed 7.35 to 7.45. This range is crucial because it indicates the acid-base balance required for various enzymatic and biochemical processes in the body. The body's metabolic activities produce acids, and the lungs and kidneys work to maintain this pH range by regulating the levels of carbon dioxide and bicarbonate in the blood.

When the blood pH falls below 7.35, a condition known as acidosis occurs, while a pH above 7.45 indicates alkalosis. Both conditions can lead to significant physiological disruptions and can be life-threatening if not corrected. Maintaining this narrow pH range is essential for the proper function of the body's systems, making it a critical concept in medical and nursing practice.