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Potassium, Serum
MessageFor local testing, please order 2343X
Test Code
733
CPT Codes
84132
Preferred Specimen
1 mL serum
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Instructions
Separate from cells as soon as possible after clotting.
Note: For plasma potassium, please see test code 11014.
Note: For plasma potassium, please see test code 11014.
Transport Container
lith. hep.
Transport Temperature
Room temperature
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Hemolysis • Plasma
Methodology
Ion Selective Electrode (ISE)
Setup Schedule
Daily
Report Available
1 day
Reference Range
| ≤1 Week | 3.2-5.5 mmol/L |
| 8-27 Days | 3.4-6.0 mmol/L |
| 1-5 Months | 3.5-5.6 mmol/L |
| 6 Months-1 Year | 3.5-6.1 mmol/L |
| 2-19 Years | 3.8-5.1 mmol/L |
| ≥20 years | 3.5-5.3 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
| Quest Diagnostics-Seattle |
| 1737 Airport Way S Suite 200 |
| Seattle, WA 98134-1636 |
Last Updated: March 10, 2025
