Module 7—Understanding Kidney Lab Tests

Here is the whole family of electrolytes together:

**Electrolyte family** – helps your muscles and nerves work properly
Name of test	What it measures	Target range
Calcium	Amount of calcium in the blood, for muscles and healthy bones	8.6 to 10 mg/dL for healthy people 8.4 to 10 mg/dL for people on dialysis
Phosphorus	Amount of phosphorus in the blood, for energy	2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL for healthy people 3.5 to 5.5 mg/dL for people on dialysis
Potassium	Amount of potassium in the blood, for the heart and other muscles	3.5 to 5.3 mEq/L for healthy people Less than 6.0 mEq/L for people on dialysis
Sodium	Amount of sodium in the blood, for fluid balance	135 to 145 mEq/L

Page 13 of 33 | Further reading