Electrolyte Profile

An electrolyte panel or serum electrolyte test is a blood test that measures the levels of seven electrolytes in your blood. Certain conditions, including dehydration, cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and liver and kidney disease, can cause electrolyte levels to become too low or high. It is an electrolyte imbalance. Other names for an electrolyte panel test include:

• Electrolyte blood test
• Serum electrolyte test
• Electrolyte lab test

What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are minerals found in the blood, tissues, urine, and other body fluids. You also get electrolytes from foods, supplements, and drinks. Electrolytes get their name because of an electrical charge when they dissolve in body fluids.

Electrolytes play a critical role in:

• Balancing fluids in your body.
• Control your rhythm and heart rate.
• Promoting dental and bone health.
• Supporting muscle and nerve function.
• Stabilizing blood pressure.

What happens during a Electrolyte Test?

During a Electrolyte Test, a lab technician will collect blood from a vein, typically from the inside of your elbow or from the back of your hand. The test will take only a few minutes. The technician:

• Cleans your skin with an antiseptic wipe
• Places an elastic band, or tourniquet, around your upper arm to help the vein swell with blood
• Inserts a needle in your vein and collect a blood sample in one or more vials
• Removes the elastic band
• Covers the area with a bandage to stop any bleeding
• Place a barcode on your blood sample vial and send them to a lab for analysis

A blood test can be slightly uncomfortable. When the needle punctures your skin, you might feel a prick or pinching sensation. Some people also feel faint or light-headed when they see blood. Afterward, you may have minor bruising, but it will clear up within a few days.

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