Which three electrolytes are included in a basic electrolyte panel?

A basic electrolyte panel typically measures key electrolytes that play vital roles in various physiological functions in the body, including fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function. The correct answer, which includes sodium, potassium, and chloride, reflects the essential nutrients that are routinely evaluated in this panel.

Sodium is crucial for maintaining osmotic pressure and fluid balance. Potassium is important for muscle function, particularly heart muscles, as well as for nerve transmission. Chloride helps maintain acid-base balance and is often present in conjunction with sodium. Together, these three electrolytes provide a good overview of an animal's electrolyte status and can help in diagnosing conditions such as dehydration or kidney disease.

In contrast, the other options feature combinations of electrolytes that are either incomplete for a basic electrolyte panel or include electrolytes not commonly assessed in such a panel. For example, calcium is important but is not part of a basic electrolyte profile, although it may be evaluated in more comprehensive panels. Understanding the specific electrolytes included in these assessments is critical for veterinary professionals when interpreting laboratory results.