POTASSIUM

Message
CHEMISTRY


Test Code
K+


Alias/See Also
K


Preferred Specimen
PLASMA


Minimum Volume
2mLs


Other Acceptable Specimens
GOLD TOP TUBE-SERUM


Instructions
1 LI HEP(LIGHT GREEN) PST TUBE,, SPIN DOWN AND SEND TO LAB.


Transport Container
ORIGINAL TUBE


Transport Temperature
REFRIGERATED


Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 1 week
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 1 week
Frozen (-20°C or colder): 1 year


Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
>2+ HEMOLYSIS


Methodology
Indirect ISE

Setup Schedule
DAILY


Report Available
DAILY


Reference Range
3.5-5.0 mmol/L


Clinical Significance
Potassium measurements are useful in monitoring electrolyte balance in the diagnosis and treatment of disease conditions, characterized by low or high blood potassium levels. Potassium is elevated in adrenal cortical insufficiency, acute renal failure, and in some cases of diabetic acidosis. Potassium is decreased in diuretic administration and renal tubular acidosis.


Performing Laboratory
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION VT VA- CHEMISTRY 802-295-9363 EXT: 5518, 5519



The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.