DefinitionIonized calcium is calcium that is freely flowing in your blood and not attached to proteins. It is also called free calcium.All cells need calcium in order to work. Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth. It is important for heart function, and helps with muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and blood clotting.This article discusses the test used to measure the amount of ionized calcium in blood.See also: Serum calciumAlternative NamesFree calcium; Ionized calciumHow the test is performedBlood is typically drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with bloo