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Electrolyte Panel with Comprehensive Metabolic Assessment (Serum)

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

This test measures key substances in your blood to check how well your organs, including your kidneys and heart, are working. It helps identify imbalances that could affect your health.

Quick summary

["A simple blood test to monitor fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105072-3
Short code
ETEC ltA+st1a+st1b Stl Ql
Synonyms
ETEC ltA+st1a+st1b Stl Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

Your blood sample includes measurements for sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine. These tests help assess kidney function, fluid balance, and acid-base equilibrium in your body.

Why It’s Done

Doctors order this test often to diagnose or monitor conditions like dehydration, kidney disease, heart problems, or metabolic disorders. It’s also used during pregnancy, before surgeries, or if you have symptoms like confusion, fatigue, or swelling.

Common Conditions It Helps Identify

High or low levels of electrolytes (like sodium or potassium) can cause muscle weakness, irregular heartbeats, or confusion. Elevated creatinine or BUN may signal kidney issues, while abnormal bicarbonate levels can indicate acid-base imbalances.

Sample Preparation

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your doctor specifies it, but this isn’t always required. Bring your medications list if you’re on long-term medications like diuretics or potassium supplements.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: stool

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) with expanded electrolytes

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 24–48 hours, depending on your lab. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during a follow-up visit.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
If your results are abnormal, your doctor will review them with you and may recommend further tests or adjustments to your treatment plan. For example, low potassium could mean you need more fluids or medications, while high sodium might indicate dehydration or kidney problems.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Most of the time, you can eat and drink normally unless instructed otherwise. If fasting is required, your doctor will let you know. Always follow your lab’s specific instructions.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy