Test Code K Potassium, Plasma or Serum
Specimen Requirements
Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
Plasma
Draw blood in a green-top (lithium heparin) tube(s) or a plasma gel tube(s). Spin down and send 1 mL of lithium heparin plasma refrigerated. Avoid hemolysis.
Note: 1. Indicate plasma on request form.
2. Label specimen appropriately (plasma).
Serum
Draw blood in a plain, red-top tube(s) or a serum gel tube(s). Spin down and send 1 mL of serum refrigerated. Avoid hemolysis.
Note: 1. Indicate serum on request form.
2. Label specimen appropriately (serum).
Performing Laboratory
Conway Regional Clinical Laboratory ServicesReference Values
0-1 year: 3.6-6.8 mmol/L≥1-5 years: 3.2-5.7 mmol/L
≥5-10 years: 3.4-5.4 mmol/L
≥10 years: 3.5-5.1 mmol/L
Critical values (automatic call-back):
0-1 year: <3.0 mmol/L or >7.9 mmol/L
≥1 year: <3.0 mmol/L or >6.3 mmol/L
Methodology
Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE)Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through SundayAvailable STAT