Potassium serum test Shankar-road

POTASSIUM SERUM TEST

DESCRIPTION – this test measures the amount of potassium in the fluid portion of the blood. Potassium helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells. Potassium levels in the body are mainly controlled by the hormone aldosterone.

METHODOLOGY – quantitative ion selective electrode

TURN AROUND TIME – within 24 hours

SPECIMEN REQUIERED –

PATIENT PREPARATION – patient should avoid exercise of hand or arm before or during collection

COLLECT – plasma separator or serum separator tube

SPECIMEN PREPARATION – allow the serum to clot completely at room temperature. Separate the serum or plasma from cells within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 1ml of serum or plasma to transport tube

STORAGE/TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE – refrigerated

STABILITY – ambient: 2 weeks; refrigerated: 2 weeks; frozen: 6 months

UNACCEPTABLE CONDITION – urine, specimen collected in citrate, EDTA or sodium fluoride. Hemolyzed specimens

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS – clinical history is mandatory