What is it?

A chloride test measures the level of chloride in your child's blood.

Chloride is one of the most important electrolytes in the blood. It helps balance the amount of fluid inside and outside of the cells. It also helps maintain proper blood volume and blood pressure. And it helps keep the pH of your child's body fluids at a healthy level.

Most of the chloride in your child's body comes from the salt (sodium chloride) that your child eats.

Why is this test done?

A test for chloride may be done to:

• Check your child's chloride level. This might be done if your child has symptoms such as muscle twitching or spasms, breathing problems, weakness, or confusion. It might also be done if your child is vomiting, has diarrhea, or is dehydrated.
• Find out if your child has kidney or adrenal gland problems.

How can you prepare for the test?

You don't need to do anything before your child has this test.

How is the test done?

A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.