Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Plain Spot Urine Plain 24 hr Urine

Minimum volume required

Special requirements

None

Patient preparation

None

Sample viability

Turnaround time

This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours. The test can be ordered as an urgent request.

Reference range

25 – 125 nmol/24 hr (Source: Abbott Diagnostics)

Clinical guidance

Urinary potassium is a useful test in the differential diagnosis of hypokalaemia. In hypokalaemia, a random urine potassium concentration >20 mmol/L suggests renal potassium loss, and <20 mmol/L suggests gastrointestinal potassium loss respectively as being the cause of the hypokalaemia.

Notes