Serum or Plasma Potassium Concentration (Qualitative/Quantitative)
This test measures the amount of potassium, a vital mineral electrolyte, in your blood. Potassium helps regulate heart rhythm, muscle function, and fluid balance.
["Potassium levels can affect heart health and muscle function—keep an eye on yours if you have heart issues or take certain medications."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88460-1
- Short code
- SRA 50 IU/mL LMW heparin Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- SRA 50 IU/mL LMW heparin Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check for low (hypokalemia) or high (hyperkalemia) potassium levels, which can cause symptoms like muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or fatigue. It’s often done when you have symptoms or when other tests suggest electrolyte imbalances.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is needed unless your doctor instructs otherwise. If you’re on a low-potassium diet or taking certain medications, mention it to your provider.
What the Results Mean
Results may indicate whether your potassium levels are too low, too high, or within a normal range. Your doctor will compare these results to your overall health and other tests to diagnose any issues.
Common Causes of Low or High Potassium
Low potassium (hypokalemia) can happen from vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, or certain medications. High potassium (hyperkalemia) may result from kidney problems, heart conditions, or overuse of potassium-sparing medications.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Potassium plays a critical role in heart function and muscle contractions. Abnormal levels can lead to serious complications like heart arrhythmias, muscle weakness, or even life-threatening conditions. Regular monitoring is important if you have chronic health conditions like kidney disease or heart failure.
Short name
Potassium Level (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my potassium levels be checked regularly?
What symptoms might indicate potassium problems?
Do I need to avoid certain foods before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy