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Alternative names Return to top
Urine potassiumDefinition Return to top
The potassium urine test measures the amount of potassium in the urine.How the test is performed Return to top
A spot urine potassium or a 24-hour urine potassium sample may be performed.Infant:
Thoroughly wash the area around the urethra. Open a urine collection bag (a plastic bag with an adhesive paper on one end), and place it on the infant. For males, the entire penis can be placed in the bag and the adhesive attached to the skin. For females, the bag is placed over the labia. Diaper as usual over the secured bag.
This procedure may take a couple of attempts -- lively infants can displace the bag, causing the specimen to be absorbed by the diaper. The infant should be checked frequently and the bag changed after the infant has urinated into the bag. The urine is drained into the container for transport to the laboratory.
Deliver it to the laboratory or your health care provider as soon as possible upon completion.
How to prepare for the test Return to top
No special preparation is necessary for this test, but if the collection is being taken from an infant, a couple of extra collection bags may be necessary.How the test will feel Return to top
This test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.Why the test is performed Return to top
This test is usually performed to detect or confirm the presence of conditions that affect body fluids (for example, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea) or disorders of the kidneys or adrenal glands, which are the source of aldosterone. For more information see the aldosterone test.Normal Values Return to top
The usual range for a person on a regular diet is 25 to 120 mEq/L/day. However, lower or higher urinary levels may occur depending on dietary potassium intake and the relative amount of potassium in the body. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories.What abnormal results mean Return to top
Greater-than-normal urine potassium levels may indicate:
What the risks are Return to top
There are no risks.Special considerations Return to top
Deficient or excessive amounts of potassium in the diet may affect test results.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |