Category : CLINICAL CHEMISTRY
Test Name : POTASSIUM
Description : Potassium testing is frequently ordered, along with other electrolytes, as part of a routine physical exam. It is used to detect potassium concentrations that are too high (hyperkalemia) or too low (hypokalemia). The most common cause of hyperkalemia is kidney disease, but many drugs can decrease potassium excretion from the body and result in this condition. Hypokalemia can occur if you have diarrhea and vomiting or if you are sweating excessively.
Specimen Needed : MINIMUM OF 2.0 ml SERUM
Preparation : Collect whole blood in a red top tube or SST.
If using a red top, clot for 5-10 minutes and centrifuge. Separate serum immediately and freeze the sample.
If using SST, clot for 5-10 minutes and centrifuge. Do not separate the serum and store the sample in the refrigerator only. Do not freeze. Label the tube of patient’s complete name and birthdate. Avoid submitting lipemic or hemolyzed specimen.
Specimen Needed : 2 to 10 mL URINE (Random)
Preparation : First morning urine is preferred. Collect “midstream clean-catch” sample. Place specimen in sterile container. Transport specimen to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection. If the specimen cannot be processed immediately, it should be refrigerated. Refrigeration preserves formed elements in the urine, but may precipitate crystals not originally present. Examination is best done on freshly voided, warm urine. Specimen delayed in transport, fecal contamination, decomposition and/or bacterial growth will be rejected. Specimen must be sent and processed within 24 hours after collection.
Specimen Needed : 2 to 10 mL URINE (24-Hour)
Preparation : If the specimen is a 24-hour collection, Instruct the patient to void at 8am and discard the specimen, then collect all urine including the final specimen voided at the end of the 24-hour collection period (i.e., 8 am the next morning). Keep specimen on ice during collection. container must be properly labeled. Requisition should indicate date and time of collection. Incomplete collection will be rejected. Specimen must be sent and processed within 24 hours after collection.
Running : Daily
Turn-around Time : 24 HR
