Test Code K Potassium, Plasma or Serum

Methodology

Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE) Direct

Decatur Morgan Hospital-Decatur Campus/Parkway Campus

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Plasma

Draw blood in a green-top (lithium heparin) tube(s). Spin down and send 1 mL of lithium heparin plasma. Avoid hemolysis.

Note: 1. Fingerstick or heelstick specimen is not acceptable without doctor’s approval.

2. Indicate plasma on request form.
3. 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. Avoid hemolysis.

Note: 1. Fingerstick or heelstick specimen is not acceptable without doctor’s approval.

2. Indicate serum on request form.

3. Label specimen appropriately (serum).

3.5-5.1 mmol/L
Critical values (automatic call-back): ≤2.5 mmol/L or ≥6.0 mmol/L

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