What is included in an electrolyte panel?
Some tests measure only one specific type of electrolyte. Your provider may order this test to confirm or rule out a suspected condition.
An electrolyte panel checks the levels of multiple minerals in your blood, including:
- Sodium: Controls fluid levels and aids nerve and muscle function.
- Potassium: Supports heart, nerve and muscle function, as well as metabolism.
- Calcium: Supports your musculoskeletal system (bones and muscles), nervous system and circulatory system.
- Chloride: Helps maintain healthy blood pressure and body fluid levels.
- Magnesium: Aids nerve and muscle function and promotes the growth of bones and teeth (skeletal system).
- Phosphate: Develops healthy teeth and bones and aids nerve and muscle function.
- Bicarbonate: Maintains a healthy balance of acids and basic alkaline compounds in blood (acid-base balance). It also moves carbon dioxide through your bloodstream.
Do you need to fast for an electrolyte panel (electrolyte blood test)?
Typically, you don’t have to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) before getting an electrolyte blood test. But your healthcare provider may ask you to fast if the lab will be measuring other substances in your blood sample like cholesterol or blood sugar.
Advertisem*nt
What happens during an electrolyte blood test?
An electrolyte panel is a relatively simple blood draw. The test may take place in a healthcare provider’s office, blood testing lab or hospital. A phlebotomist (a specialist trained in drawing blood) or another provider will take the blood sample.
How should I prepare for an electrolyte blood test?
These steps can help a blood draw go smoothly:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before the test to help blood flow easier through blood vessels.
- Avoid nicotine: Don’t smoke (including vaping) before a blood draw. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, making it more difficult to insert the needle into a vein.
- Speak up: Let your provider know if you have a fear of needles (trypanophobia) or a fear of blood (hemophobia). There are steps they can take to make the blood draw easier for you.
What should I expect after an electrolyte blood test?
You should wear the bandage for two to four hours to prevent infection. There may be slight inflammation (swelling) or bruising at the needle site, which will go away in a few days.
You can take these steps to minimize bruising or discomfort:
- Place a wrapped ice pack on the bandaged area.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, if needed.
- Avoid lifting heavy items or exercising vigorously for 24 hours after the blood draw.
What are the risks of an electrolyte blood test?
A blood test carries little risk. You may experience a drop in blood pressure during a blood draw. Low blood pressure (hypotension) can make you dizzy or nauseous. Tell your provider if you feel unwell or like you might faint. Your provider can take steps, like reclining you backward, to prevent or alleviate these problems.
