Test Code K Potassium, Plasma or Serum
Additional Codes
LAB114
Methodology
Used to monitor electrolyte balance.
Performing Laboratory
St. Mary's Regional Medical Center-Chemistry
CPT: 84132
Specimen Requirements
Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
Plasma
Container/Tube: Light green-top (lithium heparin) tube
Specimen: 1 mL of lithium heparin plasma
Transport Temperature: Ambient
Collection Instructions: Hemolyzed specimen will cause falsely elevated values.
Serum
Container/Tube: Plain, red-top tube or serum gel tube
Specimen: 1 mL of serum
Transport Temperature: Ambient
Collection Instructions: Hemolyzed specimen will cause falsely elevated values.
Reference Values
0-1 week: 3.2-5.7 mmol/L
1 week-1 month: 3.4-6.2 mmol/L
1-6 months: 3.5-5.8 mmol/L
6 months - 1 year: 3.5-6.3 mmol/L
>1 year: 3.4-5.1 mmol/L
Call criteria (automatic call-back): <3.0 mEq/L or >6.0 mEq/L
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Available STAT