In brief
Measures sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate, salts that help regulate heart rhythm, nerves and muscles.
What it measures
Sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate.
Why it is done
Usually as part of kidney function tests, and when there may be heart problems or diabetes.
Reading the results
- The kidneys control electrolyte levels, and the most common cause of an imbalance is kidney damage.
- Doctors are especially concerned with sodium and potassium levels.
- Severe fluid loss (dehydration) can raise potassium, sodium and chloride.
Before the test
None.
What can affect the result
- Dehydration
- Some medicines
- Heart, muscle and nerve conditions
- Diabetes
Related topics
Connections
Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate) measures
The electrolytes blood test measures potassium along with sodium, chloride and bicarbonate.
Sources: Pathology Tests Explained, Electrolytes; healthdirect Australia, Potassium
Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate) is linked with
The kidneys control electrolyte levels, and the most common cause of an imbalance is kidney damage.
Sources
Test information summarised from the sources listed on this page, read on 19 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.