Electrolytes are primary ions that main- tain a balance between the extracellular and intracellular environments to optimize cellular function Various
physiological mechanisms in the human body exist to maintain the concentrations of electrolytes and renal byproducts within narrow ranges for optimum health Routinely-performed blood tests provide data on serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chlo- ride, bicarbonate) and renal byproducts, such as urea and creatinine