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HelpTest Code K Potassium
Additional Codes
| EPIC | LAB4166 |
Clinical Significance
Potassium measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of hypokalemia (metabolic alkalosis/acidosis or the absence of acid-base disturbances), hyperkalemia (overadministration of potassium, acidosis, or crush injuries), renal failure, Addison's disesae or other diseases involving electrolyte imbalance.
Source: Beckman Coulter Unicel, K IFU. REF #A18509AM 12/22/15
Methodology
Indirect potentiometry (Beckman Coulter UniCel DxC 660i)
Sample Type
| Preferred Sample Type | |
|---|---|
| Light green top - Plasma | |
| Acceptable Sample Type(s) | |
|---|---|
| Dark green top - Plasma | |
| Yellow top - Serum | |
| Red top - Serum | |
Centrifuge: Yes
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Specimen Stability
| Temperature | Time |
|---|---|
| Ambient (18-25°C) | 8 hours |
| Refrigerated (2-8°C) (store) | 48 hours |
| Frozen (-15 to -20°C) | 1 month |
Separate plasma or serum from cells within 2 hours.
Reference Ranges
| Normal Range | |
|---|---|
| <1 month | 5.0 - 7.7 mmol/L |
| >1 month | 3.5 - 4.9 mmol/L |
| Critical Values | |
|---|---|
| <1 month | <2.6 or >7.9 mmol/L |
| >1 month | <2.6 or >6.4 mmol/L |
| Technical Range | |
|---|---|
| 1.0 - 15.0 mmol/L |
Rejection Criteria
| Hemolysis | 1+ or greater, reject |
|---|---|
| Icterus | N/A |
| Lipemia | N/A |
Availability
| Performed | STAT |
|---|---|
| 24/7 | Yes |
Performing Laboratory
MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital Laboratory
Lab Department
Chemistry
CPT Code
84132
LOINC
2823-3 Potassium [Moles/Vol]