A sodium blood test measures the amount of sodium in your blood. Sodium is a type of electrolyte. Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals that help maintain fluid levels and the balance of chemicals in your body called acids and bases. Sodium also helps your nerves and muscles work properly.

SPECIMEN: 2 mL (1 mL min.) serum from 1 SST. Ship refrigerated or frozen.
STABILITY: Room: 2 hrs; Refrigerated: 72 hrs; Frozen: 1 week
REPORT: Daily
INSTRUCTIONS: No special preparation required
USAGE: Sodium is critical in maintaining water and osmotic equilibrium in extracellular fluids. Disturbances in acid base and water balance are typically reflected in sodium concentrations.