The BMP, or basic metabolic panel, blood test is performed to test the body's blood acid and base balance, blood sugar levels and kidney function, according to MedlinePlus. The basic metabolic panel checks CO2 levels, BUN level, creatinine, glucose, serum chloride, serum sodium and serum potassium, notes MedlinePlus.
Other names for the basic metabolic panel include the Chem-7, SMAC7, SMA7, Metabolic panel 7 and Sequential multi-channel analysis with computer-7. For accurate results, this blood test requires an 8-hour fast, without food or drink, before blood is drawn, exlpains MedlinePlus. Blood is taken from a vein through a needle for this diagnostic test.
