Urine electrolytes (Random)

Test information: Urinary sodium is useful in the differential diagnosis of hyponatramia. Urinary sodium levels are also frequently ordered during the workup of acute renal failure with the fractional excretion of sodium used as an important marker in distinguishing pre-renal from post-renal failure. Urinary potassium may be ordered in the workup of hypokalemia. In case of GI loss of potassium, the urine potassium will be low. In case of renal loss of potassium, the urine potassium levels will be high. Decreased levels of urine potassium are also seen in hypoaldosteronism and adrenal insufficiency.

Specimen Type(s)

• Urine;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

Please note we have a 24 hour urine version of this test.

Specimen Container - Adult

• Plain Universal;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• N/A;

Analytes

• N/A;

Part of a test profile?

Electrolytes

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

1ml

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

24 hour urine containers can be ordered through Clinical chemistry, contact us on 01872 252540 or via ICE mail or rch-tr.biochem@nhs.net to request a container, a patient information leaflet will also be included.

Maximum add on time

5 days refrigerated

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

mmol/L

UKAS number

8869

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

N/A

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.