Why is this procedure done?
An electrolyte panel is a blood test. It measures the amount of electrolytes in your body. ‚
Electrolytes are minerals that help keep your body fluids balanced. They help your body work normally doing things like muscle contraction and heart and brain function. ‚
The electrolyte panel checks these things: ‚
- Sodium ¢ ˆ ’ Helps with the proper working condition of your nerves and muscles
- Potassium ¢ ˆ ’ Helps coordinate your muscles and nerves
- Chloride ¢ ˆ ’ Helps balance your body fluids
- Bicarbonate ¢ ˆ ’ Helps keep the normal acid balance of your body
In some labs, an electrolyte panel includes other tests to check your sugar level or how well your kidneys are working. This test is among the first tests the doctor orders to learn more of your condition. Your doctor may order this test if you have: ‚
- Swelling
- Confusion
- Heart, lung, and kidney problems
- Serious illness like diabetes
- Muscle cramps or weakness
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test and what is normal. The doctor will know if you have an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are normal, it means your body is likely working in a normal way.
- If the results are not normal, you may have an illness which is causing an electrolyte abnormality. Your doctor may order more tests to learn more about what is wrong.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- There are no special things to do before the test.
- Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking
- If you have any bleeding problems
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The blood will be sent to the lab for testing. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your electrolytes. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/electrolytes/tab/test ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚