Renal function and electrolyte profile (general assessment of kidney function and fluid balance)
This test measures key substances in your blood that help your kidneys filter waste and maintain fluid balance. It’s often used to check for kidney problems, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances.
A simple blood test to monitor kidney health and fluid/electrolyte levels.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 64323-9
- Short code
- ENDSTAGERENALDISEASEFACILITYSURVEYOMBCMSFORM2744
- Synonyms
- —
- 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 sample will be tested for several important substances, including sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). These measures help assess how well your kidneys are working and whether your body is retaining too much or too little fluid or electrolytes.
Common Uses
Doctors use this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like kidney disease, heart failure, dehydration, or high blood pressure. It’s also part of routine check-ups for people at higher risk of kidney problems.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The lab analyzes the sample using automated methods to measure the levels of these substances. Results help determine if your kidneys are functioning properly or if fluid/electrolyte balance needs adjustment.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your doctor specifies it (e.g., for creatinine or BUN levels). Drink plenty of water the day before if you’re dehydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Renal Panel (or Basic Metabolic Panel - BMP)
Frequently asked questions
High sodium, potassium, or creatinine levels may indicate kidney issues, heart problems, or dehydration. Low bicarbonate could signal metabolic acidosis, while elevated BUN or creatinine often signal impaired kidney function. These results guide treatment decisions, such as adjusting medications or fluid intake.
What does a ‘renal panel’ include?
How often should I get this test if I have kidney issues?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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