What does Basic Metabolic Panel measure?

What does Basic Metabolic Panel measure?

• A. It measures glucose and hormones.
• B. It measures lipids and proteins.
• C. It measures blood sugar only.
• D. It measures electrolytes and organ function.

Answer: (D)

The Basic Metabolic Panel is a quick snapshot of the body's metabolic and kidney function. It measures electrolytes (such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate), waste products that reflect kidney function (like BUN and creatinine), and often glucose (and sometimes calcium). This combination helps assess hydration status, acid-base balance, and how well the kidneys are working. That’s why it’s best described as measuring electrolytes and organ (kidney) function. It’s not about lipids or hormones, and it’s not limited to blood sugar alone.

The Basic Metabolic Panel is a quick snapshot of the body's metabolic and kidney function. It measures electrolytes (such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate), waste products that reflect kidney function (like BUN and creatinine), and often glucose (and sometimes calcium). This combination helps assess hydration status, acid-base balance, and how well the kidneys are working. That’s why it’s best described as measuring electrolytes and organ (kidney) function. It’s not about lipids or hormones, and it’s not limited to blood sugar alone.