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Test Code WBK K, Whole blood, LAB2960

Important Note

 In the following scenarios the WBK testing will be performed:

 

1.

 

In the Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) protocol initiated by the Emergency Department.  If a concurrent COMPNL or PLCH7 is order the WBK needs to be credited.

2.

For CAB testing when the whole blood potassium is routinely performed.

3.

The patient has ABGS, VBG or MOST ordered concurrently with the potassium which will save the patient from having more blood drawn and streamline the processing.

 

Performing Laboratory

St. Luke's Hospital Cedar Rapids

Specimen Requirements

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Heparinized syringe

Acceptable: Green-top (heparin) tube

Specimen Volume: 65 uL of heparinized whole blood or plasma

Stability: Specimens should be analyzed within 30 minutes of collection if whole blood or up to 7 days refrigerated as plasma (2-8ºC).

 

 

Reference Values

3.5 – 5.0 mmol/L

Critical values

0-30 days: ≤3.0 mmol/L or >7.0 mmol/L

≥1 month: ≤2.8 mmol/L or ≥6.2 mmol/L

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Useful For

Potassium measurements are used to monitor electrolyte balance in the diagnosis and treatment of disease conditions characterized by low or high blood potassium levels. 

Methodology

Potentiometric Sensor

Test Classification and CPT Coding

84132

Report Available

Within 15 mintues of receipt