Skip to content

Serum/Plasma Electrolyte Panel (with Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, and Bicarbonate)

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

This test measures key minerals in your blood that help regulate important bodily functions, including nerve and muscle activity, fluid balance, and acid-base balance.

Quick summary

["Essential for detecting imbalances that may cause symptoms like confusion, muscle weakness, or irregular heartbeat."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45661-6
Short code
QUADRIPLEGIA
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mds
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

This panel includes four primary electrolytes: sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. Sodium and chloride help maintain fluid balance and blood pressure, while potassium supports heart and muscle function, and bicarbonate plays a role in keeping your blood pH stable.

Why It’s Ordered

Doctors may order this test to check for dehydration, kidney problems, heart conditions, or metabolic disorders. It’s also used to monitor long-term conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Common Conditions Monitored

Electrolyte imbalances can arise from dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney issues, or certain medications. Symptoms like fatigue, irregular heartbeat, or swelling may signal a problem that this test helps identify.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then separated into serum (liquid part without clots) or plasma (liquid with clots removed) for testing. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be required for some related tests.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Basic Electrolyte Panel

Frequently asked questions

What does this test tell us about my health?
Low sodium or high potassium levels might indicate dehydration, kidney problems, or heart conditions. Low bicarbonate could signal metabolic acidosis, while high levels may suggest metabolic alkalosis. These imbalances can affect how your body regulates fluids, nerves, and muscles.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health status. For example, people with chronic conditions like kidney disease or heart failure may need this test more often than others.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Generally, no special diet is required for this test alone, but check with your provider if they’ve ordered related tests (like glucose) that may require fasting.
  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