Potassium

Alternative Names/Synonyms	K
Laboratory	Core Laboratory & Transfusion Medicine
Sub-section	Biochemistry
Specimen Type	Blood
Test Code	KS, KPL

Clinical Significance (If applicable)

Evaluating electrolyte balance and other potassium-related disorders such as cardiac arrhythmia, muscular weakness and renal failure.

Specimen Requirements (Sample Type)

Serum, Plasma

Specimen Requirements (Volume (mL))

0.5 mL

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

Serum (Gold SST)
Plasma (Light Green PST)
Collection Containers – Tube Types

Draw (mL)

4.5 mL

Collection Requirements

Collection Instructions

Sample Stability

Freezer: N/A

Room Temperature: 14 days

Fridge: 14 days @ 2-8°C

Cause for Rejection

Specimen Acceptability and Transport Guidance

Instrument, Methodology

Roche cobas ISE, indirect selective electrode

Test Availability

24 hours a day, 7 days a week

STAT Turnaround Time

1 hour

Routine Turnaround Time

3 hours

Reference Ranges

3.5 - 5.0 mmol/L
In case of discrepancies, always interpret results using reference ranges as stated on laboratory reports and/or electronic patient chart.

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4688