Blood Calcium Test: About Your Child's Test
What is it?
It is a blood test to check the level of calcium in your child's body that isn't stored in the bones. Almost all of the calcium in the body is stored in bone. The rest is found in the blood.
The body needs calcium to build and fix bones and teeth, to help nerves work, to make muscles squeeze together, to help blood clot, and to help the heart to work.
Why is this test done?
A blood calcium test may be done:
- To check for problems with the parathyroid glands or kidneys.
- To look for certain types of cancers and bone problems or for inflammation of the pancreas.
- To see if your child has a very low calcium level in the blood.
- To see if your child has a very high calcium level in the blood.
This test can't be used to check for a lack of calcium in your child's diet. It also can't check for a loss of calcium from your child's bones.
How do you prepare for the test?
- Your doctor will tell you if your child shouldn't eat or drink anything before the test.
How is the test done?
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if your child is having problems. Ask your doctor when you can expect to have your child's test results.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter B625 in the search box to learn more about "Blood Calcium Test: About Your Child's Test".
Adaptation Date: 3/1/2022
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services
