Basic Metabolic Panel

Question 1

glucose purpose/significance

Answer 1

screen and monitor diabetes

can determine insulin resistance if high

Question 2

total calcium purpose/significance

Answer 2

measure Ca not stored in bones, evaluate PTH function, Ca metabolism in CKD/renal transplant/some cancers

HyperCa- hypervitaminosis D, endocrine disorders, malignancy
HypoCa- hypovitaminosis D, hypoPTH, low kidney/liver function, Mg deficiency

Question 3

Na+ purpose/significance

Answer 3

measures total body Na compared to extracell. fluid V as well as balance between dietary intake and excretory function

Increased with dehydration, and decreased with hydration

Question 4

K+ purpose/significance

Answer 4

opposite relationship to Na

Increased shows CKD, crush injuries, infection
Decreased shows diarrhea/vom, drugs, licorice intake, diuretics

Question 5

Cl- purpose/significance

Answer 5

acid-base balance, water balance, osmolality

Increase with dehydration, and decreased with hydration

Question 6

HCO3- for total CO2 purpose

Answer 6

assess acid-base balance, electrolyte status

Question 7

BUN/urea purpose/significance

Answer 7

excretory function of kidney and metab function of liver

increased with CKD/excessive protein catabolism/overhydration.
decreased with liver failure/negative nitrogen balance/ pregnant women

Question 8

creatinine purpose/significance

Answer 8

assess excretory function of kidney

increased with CKD/trauma/surgery. decreased in malnutrition

Question 9

how many tests? What three things does it measure?

Answer 9

8, blood glucose, electrolyte/fluid level, kidney function