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Electrolyte and Renal Function Panel (Serum) for In-Center Hemodialysis Patients

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

This blood test measures key substances to check your body’s electrolyte balance, kidney function, and how well your blood is filtering waste during hemodialysis.

Quick summary

This test helps monitor your treatment and prevent complications from imbalances or kidney issues.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
64372-6
Short code
INCENTERHEMODIALYSISPATIENTSRECEIVINGTREATMENTSINCLUDINGTRAININGTREATMENT
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 will be drawn to check levels of electrolytes and substances that help your kidneys filter waste. This includes sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). These measures help ensure your dialysis is working properly and that your body’s chemistry stays stable.

Why It Matters During Dialysis

Hemodialysis removes waste and extra fluids from your blood, but your body still needs balanced levels of electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Too much or too little can cause serious problems, such as muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, or even seizures. This test helps your healthcare team adjust your treatment to keep you safe and healthy.

Common Uses in Dialysis Care

This test is often done before, during, or after dialysis sessions to track how well your body is responding to treatment. It helps identify if your kidneys are still working outside of dialysis or if your electrolytes need adjustment to avoid complications.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. This usually only takes a few minutes. If you’re on dialysis, your healthcare team may draw blood during or just after your session to get the most accurate results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal results can signal problems like electrolyte imbalances (e.g., high potassium, which can be life-threatening), kidney dysfunction, or dehydration. For dialysis patients, these results guide adjustments to fluid intake, medication, or dialysis settings to prevent complications like heart rhythm issues, muscle weakness, or swelling.

Frequently asked questions

Will I feel any pain or discomfort?
You might feel a slight pinch or sting when the needle is inserted, but most people describe it as mild. Afterward, there may be a small bruise or sore spot, which usually goes away quickly. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare team know—they can use a numbing cream or take extra care to make it more comfortable.
How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your dialysis schedule and how well your kidneys are functioning outside of treatment. Your doctor or dialysis team will tell you how often to get this test, but it’s often done weekly or biweekly to monitor your progress closely.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
You can eat and drink normally before the test unless your healthcare provider gives specific instructions. Some tests may require fasting, but this one does not. Drinking extra water beforehand might help if you’re dehydrated, but avoid excessive fluids to prevent diluting your blood results.
  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