Potassium

Test information: Potassium is the main intracellular cation. Small changes in the distribution of potassium can give rise to medical emergencies.  Diseases of the kidney, adrenal and any process that affects acid base disturbance will affect plasma potassium concentration. Crush injuries are also a cause of hyperkalaemia.

Specimen Type(s)

• Blood;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Gold Top SST BD;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Light Green Top Microtainer BD;

Analytes

• N/A;

Part of a test profile?

Electrolytes

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

4ml

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

N/A

Maximum add on time

5 days

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

RR for Male and Female Up to 1mth - 3.4 - 6.0 mmol/L 1mth to less than 1yr - 3.5 - 5.7 mmol/L 1yr to less than 16yrs - 3.5 - 5.0 mmol/L 16yrs & above - 3.5 - 5.3 mmol/L

UKAS number

8869

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

N/A

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