Laboratory Medicine
Test Directory / Urine Potassium
Urine Potassium
24 hour container, urine monovette or white topped universal (no additives)
| Test | Urine Potassium |
|---|---|
| Common Abbreviations | UPOT |
| Profile | Urine Urea and Electrolytes |
| Tube type | 24 hour container, urine monovette or white topped universal (no additives) |
| Clinical Indication | Urinary potassium may be ordered in the workup of hypokalemia. In case of GI loss of potassium, the urine potassium will be low. In case of renal loss of potassium, the urine potassium levels will be high. Decreased levels of urine potassium are also seen in hypoaldosteronism and adrenal insufficiency. |
| Specimen Type | Urine |
| Sample type | Random or 24 Hour Urine |
| Minimum Volume | 1mL |
| Special Precautions | No special requirements |
| Stability | 2 months at 2-8°C and 45 days at 15-25°C |
| Turnaround Time | Inpatient: 6 hours Outpatient/ GP: 24 hours |
| Laboratory | York and Scarborough |
| Reference Interval | 25 - 125 mmol/24hours Reference range for random urine not available. Result should be interpreted in conjunction with serum result. |
| Limitations | NA |
| Notes |
