What is this test?
This test measures the levels of electrolytes (Sodium, potassium, Chloride, Calcium) in blood to check for an electrolyte imbalance.
 
Sample required
Blood.
 
Patient preparation
No specific patient preparation protocol required. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing this test.
 
Turn-around time (How long does it take?)
3 Hours.
 
Basis of the Test
The electrolyte panel measures the blood levels of the main electrolytes in the body: sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl-), and bicarbonate (HCO3-). Electrolytes are minerals that are found in body tissues and blood in the form of dissolved salts. As electrically charged particles, electrolytes help move nutrients into and wastes out of the body’s cells, maintain a healthy water balance, and help stabilize the body’s acid/base (pH) level. The electrolytes also help in the proper functioning of the nervous and endocrine systems, and in bodily cell to cell communication.