Preferred Specimen(s) 1 mL serum
Transport Container Plastic screw-cap vial
Transport Temperature Ambient 5 days, Refrigerated 14 days
Reject Criteria
- Gross hemolysis
- Plasma
Methodology Ion Selective Electrode (ISE)
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.