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Electrolyte Panel with Serum/Plasma Measurement (including Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Bicarbonate, Glucose)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures key minerals and substances in your blood to check how well your body is balancing fluids and chemicals.

Quick summary

["Helps assess hydration, kidney function, and acid-base balance in your blood."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108744-4
Short code
EME Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
EME Msmt SerPl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

Your blood contains several important electrolytes and substances that work together to maintain balance. This panel includes measurements for sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, and glucose levels. These values help determine how well your body is regulating fluids and maintaining chemical equilibrium.

Why It’s Done

Doctors order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like dehydration, kidney disease, heart problems, or metabolic imbalances. It’s also used before surgeries or treatments that might affect fluid balance.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then tested for the listed electrolytes and glucose.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps identify issues like low or high sodium/potassium levels (which can affect nerves and muscles), abnormal fluid retention, or diabetes-related glucose changes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Basic Electrolyte Panel

Frequently asked questions

What does a ‘normal’ result mean?
Normal results don’t mean you’re perfectly healthy—just that your electrolytes and glucose are within a general range. Your doctor will consider your overall health and symptoms when interpreting results.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Healthy adults may not need it unless advised by a doctor. People with chronic conditions (like kidney disease or heart problems) may need it more often.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For most electrolyte panels, fasting isn’t required, but follow your doctor’s instructions. For glucose measurements, avoid eating/drinking for 8–12 hours before the test if specified.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy