Test Name
POTASSIUM
Aliases
SERUM POTASSIUM
Abbreviations
K, K+
Test Classification
INDIVIDUAL
Department
ROUTINE CHEMISTRY
Sub Department
-
TAT Category
BUSINESS (WORKING) TIME
Estimated TAT
1
TAT Units
HOURS
Test Requirements
Serum in plain tube (red top) or SST tube (yellow top) or in a separation vial. Centrifuge tubes within 1 hour. Separate centrifuged serum in plain tubes within 1 hour. Sample must NOT be haemolyzed.
SHIPPING/ TRANSPORTATION REQUIREMENTS
Shipping Temperature: Refrigerated
ANALYTE STABILITY
Room Temperature: 6 weeks at 20-25°C │ Refrigerated: 6 weeks at 2-8°C │ Frozen: 1 year at -20°C
Clinical Utility
Variable. Helps determine if there is electrolyte &/ or metabolic imbalance.
Last Review
26th Feb 2026