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Basicmetabolicalbuminpanelserpl

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A blood test that measures sugar levels, kidney function, and electrolyte balance to assess your overall metabolic health.

Quick summary

{"Measures blood sugar (glucose), calcium, and kidney function markers","Checks electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2) that help your nerves and muscles work properly","Requires fasting for 8-12 hours before the test for accurate results","Results help doctors diagnose conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and electrolyte imbalances","A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
89044-2
Short code
BMAP
Synonyms
Basic metabolic & albumin panel SerPl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST, gold/red-marbled top) or plain red-top vacutainer; alternatively lithium-heparin plasma separator tube (green-top PST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
136
Ref high
145
Critical range
1.5 N/A – —
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
Ion-selective electrode (ISE) for electrolytes, enzymatic/colorimetric assays for glucose, BUN, creatinine, calcium, and albumin
CPT
80047 (Basic metabolic panel with ionized calcium) or 80048 (Basic metabolic panel with total calcium)
SNOMED
43789009
Specimen volume
3-5 mL whole blood yielding 1-2 mL serum or plasma
Stability
Serum/plasma stable for 8 hours at room temperature (15-25°C), 48 hours refrigerated (2-8°C), and up to 30 days frozen at -20°C. Glucose should be analyzed within 2 hours or sample preserved with fluoride/oxalate.
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
500
Icterus max
20
TAT
1–4 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) with Albumin is a group of blood tests that measure different substances in your blood. These tests help doctors understand how well your body's metabolism is working—basically, how your body converts food into energy and maintains its chemical balance.

What does it measure?

This panel typically measures: Glucose (blood sugar), Calcium, Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Bicarbonate (CO2), Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), Creatinine, and Albumin (a protein made by your liver). Each of these substances plays an important role in keeping your body functioning properly.

How is the test done?

A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood is collected into a tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test usually takes only a few minutes. You may be asked to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8-12 hours before the test to get accurate blood sugar readings.

Are there any risks?

The risks are minimal and include slight pain or bruising at the needle site, lightheadedness, and rare chance of infection. These usually go away quickly. The benefits of getting important health information far outweigh these minor risks.

Reference range

Composite panel reference ranges (adult): Sodium 136-145 mmol/L; Potassium 3.5-5.1 mmol/L; Chloride 98-107 mmol/L; CO2 (Bicarbonate) 22-29 mmol/L; Glucose 70-99 mg/dL (fasting); BUN 7-20 mg/dL; Creatinine 0.7-1.3 mg/dL; Calcium 8.5-10.5 mg/dL; Albumin 3.5-5.0 g/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Patient should be well-hydrated. Avoid prolonged tourniquet application which may falsely elevate potassium and other analytes. Inform provider of any medications, supplements, or recent IV fluid administration.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
Yes, you should typically fast for 8-12 hours before a Basic Metabolic Panel. This ensures accurate blood sugar readings. You may drink water during the fasting period. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 24-48 hours, though this may vary depending on the laboratory. Your doctor's office will contact you with the results or discuss them at your next appointment.
What do abnormal results mean?
Abnormal results do not always mean you have a serious condition. Many factors can affect test results, including medications, diet, and recent exercise. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your overall health and other factors. They may recommend additional tests or lifestyle changes if needed.
Can I take my regular medications before the test?
You should inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before the test. Some medications can affect test results. Your doctor will advise you on whether to take your medications on the morning of the test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Basic Metabolic PanelSource
  2. 2
    May Clinic - Blood glucose testSource
  3. 3
    ARUP Consult - Basic Metabolic PanelSource

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy