Compare this test’s laboratory options
Potassium
Access Medical Labs · Quest Diagnostics2 test optionsFrom $8.40
Potassium
Access Medical Labs · Quest DiagnosticsCatalog information reviewed: August 24, 2026 by the Sunridge Medical clinical team.
What this laboratory test evaluates
DetailsPotassium, Plasma – This test measures the level of potassium in blood plasma. Sometimes, potassium levels might appear falsely high or low due to certain conditions like hemolysis (breaking open of red blood cells) or the rupture of platelets during the blood clotting process. It's particularly useful for patients who might have inaccurate potassium readings due to blood samples being left at room temperature, those with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and very high white blood cell counts (which can falsely lower potassium levels), and individuals with thrombocytosis (high platelet counts) which can falsely raise potassium levels.
What patients is this test right for?This test is crucial for individuals who have had previous issues with potassium level measurements, especially in cases where external factors such as sample handling or specific health conditions might have influenced their results.
What type of sample is required for this test?1 mL plasma collected in a lithium heparin (green-top) tube. Proper collection and handling of the sample are critical to avoid false readings.
Additional test information
This test is crucial for individuals who have had previous issues with potassium level measurements, especially in cases where external factors such as sample handling or specific health conditions might have influenced their results.
Collection and processing
- Sample type: Plasma
- Fasting: No
- Estimated laboratory processing: Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected
How Sunridge uses laboratory information
Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.
Before requesting this test
Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.
Common questions about this laboratory test
- What sample does this test require?
- The listed sample type is Plasma. Confirm current collection instructions in the approved order.
- Does this test require fasting?
- The current catalog record lists fasting as: No. Follow the instructions supplied with the approved order.
- How long does laboratory processing usually take?
- Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected. Timing can change after collection or if a laboratory requires additional review.
About this test
DetailsPotassium, Plasma - This test measures the level of potassium in blood plasma. Sometimes, potassium levels might appear falsely high or low due to certain conditions like hemolysis (breaking open of red blood cells) or the rupture of platelets during the blood clotting process. It's particularly useful for patients who might have inaccurate potassium readings due to blood samples being left at room temperature, those with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and very high white blood cell counts (which can falsely lower potassium levels), and individuals with thrombocytosis (high platelet counts) which can falsely raise potassium levels.
What patients is this test right for?This test is crucial for individuals who have had previous issues with potassium level measurements, especially in cases where external factors such as sample handling or specific health conditions might have influenced their results.
What type of sample is required for this test?1 mL plasma collected in a lithium heparin (green-top) tube. Proper collection and handling of the sample are critical to avoid false readings.
Additional details
This test is crucial for individuals who have had previous issues with potassium level measurements, especially in cases where external factors such as sample handling or specific health conditions might have influenced their results.
Highlighted health areas
- Cardiovascular
- Kidney
- Electrolytes
Biomarkers and report focus
The exact analytes and report format can change. Confirm the current contents in the Fullscript order before payment.
- Potassium