Basic metabolic panel
Quick answer: A basic metabolic panel is a group of blood tests that usually covers blood sugar, kidney function and salts such as sodium and potassium. It is used in routine check-ups, in illness or dehydration, and to monitor kidney disease, diabetes or medicines.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testFor the fasting version, do not eat for about 8 to 10 hours beforehand (water is fine); the random version needs no fasting.
How the test is done
- 1Staff confirm whether you are having the fasting or random version
- 2Your inner elbow is cleaned and a tourniquet is applied
- 3Blood is drawn into a tube
- 4Cotton and a plaster are placed on the spot
What your results can mean
Reading your report
The exact list of tests in this panel is available from the hospital; discuss the results with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
Abnormal results can point to high or low blood sugar, reduced kidney function, dehydration, or salt imbalances caused by vomiting, diarrhoea or medicines. Each result is read together with the others and your symptoms.
Who usually has this test
People having routine check-ups, those who are unwell or dehydrated, and people with diabetes, kidney disease or on medicines that affect salts.
Risks and aftercare
You can eat and drink normally right after a fasting sample, and a small bruise is the usual only effect.
Names and options
Also called: BMP, metabolic panel
Options
- Fasting
- Random
Listed by the hospital as
- METABOLIC PANEL-BASIC (FASTING)
- METABOLIC PANEL-BASIC (RANDOM)
Questions about this test
What does a basic metabolic panel include?
A basic metabolic panel usually includes glucose, urea, creatinine and electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate, and sometimes calcium. Ask the hospital for the exact tests in their panel.
Should I choose the fasting or random version?
Your doctor will decide. The fasting version gives a clearer blood sugar reading, while the random version is useful when you cannot fast or need results quickly.
Can dehydration change my metabolic panel?
Yes. Dehydration can raise urea, creatinine and sodium for a short time. If you have been vomiting or had diarrhoea, tell the staff, as your doctor may want to repeat the test later.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.