What is Blood Chemistry?
Blood chemistry tests, often referred to as a "chemistry panel" or "chem panel", assess various components in the blood to give insights about the function of organs, metabolic processes, and nutritional status.
Procedure for Blood Chemistry Testing:
1. Sample Collection:
A healthcare provider, usually a phlebotomist or nurse, draws blood from a vein, typically from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand.
This sample is collected into a special tube.
2. Preparation:
The blood sample is sent to a lab, where it's often centrifuged to separate blood cells from the plasma or serum.
3. Analysis:
Using automated machines and specific reagents, the serum or plasma is analyzed to measure levels of various components, such as glucose, electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate), kidney function markers (BUN & creatinine), liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP), and other parameters.
4. Results Interpretation:
The results are compared to reference ranges to determine if they're within normal limits.
Abnormal results can indicate potential medical conditions, the effects of medications, or the need for further testing.
5. Reporting:
The laboratory sends the results back to the ordering healthcare provider for review and clinical decision-making.
