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Dialysis Facility Direct Transfer Blood Chemistry Profile

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

This test measures key blood chemistry levels sent directly from your dialysis facility to monitor how well your body is handling fluids, electrolytes, and waste removal during treatment.

Quick summary

Your blood chemistry helps track how dialysis is working and your overall health between sessions.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
71538-3
Short code
SENTTOHOSPITALDIRECTLYFROMDIALYSISFACILITY
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
esrd
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 profile typically includes tests for electrolytes (such as sodium, potassium, and calcium), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and sometimes glucose or other markers to assess hydration, kidney function, and metabolic balance.

Why It’s Done During Dialysis

Dialysis facilities send these samples immediately after your treatment to check for imbalances caused by fluid removal, toxin buildup, or electrolyte shifts that could affect your safety or treatment plan.

What to Expect Before or After

No special preparation is needed. Blood is drawn right after dialysis, and results are reviewed by your healthcare team to adjust your treatment if needed.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps detect issues like dehydration, high potassium (hyperkalemia), low calcium, or elevated waste products that could indicate problems with kidney function or fluid balance.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal results may signal that your dialysis is under- or over-removing fluids, toxins, or electrolytes. Your doctor will use these findings to adjust your dialysis settings, medications, or lifestyle to prevent complications like muscle cramps, heart rhythm issues, or fatigue.

Short name

Dialysis Blood Test

Frequently asked questions

Will I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required. Blood is drawn immediately after dialysis, so timing depends on your facility’s protocol.
How long will I wait for results?
Results are typically reviewed within hours by your dialysis team and shared with your doctor to guide next steps, often the same day or within 24 hours.
Can I ask my doctor about my results before they’re shared?
Yes, your healthcare provider will discuss findings with you during your next dialysis session or follow-up visit to explain any concerns.
  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