Test Code K.2 POTASSIUM

Methodology

Potentiometric, Direct

Useful in the evaluation of electrolyte balance, cardiac arrhythmias, muscular weakness, hepatic encephalopathy, and renal failure.

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Preferred:

Serum

Serum Gel Tube

Container/Tube: Serum gel tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of serum-Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.

Collection Instructions: Spin down within 2 hours of draw.

Note: Label specimen appropriately (serum).

Alternate:

Serum

Plain, Red-Top Tube

Container/Tube: Plain, red-top tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of serum-Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.

Collection Instructions: Spin down within 2 hours of draw.

Note: Label specimen appropriately (serum).

Plasma

Container/Tube: Green-top (lithium heparin) tube(s)

Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of plasma-Hemolyzed specimen is not acceptable.

Collection Instructions: Spin down within 2 hours of draw.

Note: Label specimen appropriately (plasma).

Monday through Sunday

0-2 days: <3.0 and >6.4 mmol/L

3-10 days: <3.0 and >7.0 mmol/L

11d - 1 year: <3.0 and >7.4 mmol/L

Critical values (automatic call-back): <3.0 mmol/L or >6.0 mmol/L

Logan Health Medical Center-Chemistry

84132

Refrigerate