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Basic Metabolic Panel

Testing Information

Sample Type
Serum
Test Codes
631300
CPT Code
80048
Testing Area
Core Lab - Chemistry
Test Methodology
Abbott Alinity - Enzymatic, Potentiometry, Spectrophotometry
Reference Range
The Basic Metabolic Panel includes Blood Urea Nitrogen, Calcium, Carbon Dioxide, Chloride, Creatinine, Glucose, Potassium, and Sodium. Please see individual test entries for more information.
Expected Turnaround Time
Results Available 24 hours from Receipt at the laboratory.
Specimen Collection Criteria
Collect one gold top SST tube (minimum whole blood: 4 mL). Let specimen clot for 30-60 minutes and then centrifuge to separate serum from cells. Refrigerate after centrifugation.
Rejection Criteria
Grossly hemolyzed specimens, quantity not sufficient, improperly labeled
Specimen Validity and Retention
Centrifuged SST Tubes:Room Temperature (20-25°C): 2-4 HoursRefrigerated (2-8°C): 7 DaysFrozen (-20°C or greater): UnacceptableSerum Aliquots:Room Temperature (20-25°C): UnacceptableRefrigerated (2-8°C): 7 daysFrozen (-20°C or greater): 7 daysSpecimens retained for 7 days after testing
Courier Transportation
Transport centrifuged tube refrigerated (2-8°C)
Clinical Utility
Basic Metabolic Panel is an AMA-approved panel that is commonly used to evaluate abnormalities related to acid-base balance, renal function, and glycermic control.