Potassium (K+) Lab Values

Normal
3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L

Indications

• Evaluate:
  • Electrolyte imbalances
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
• Monitor patients who are:
  • Acidotic
  • Receiving diuretic therapy

Description

Potassium (K+) is the most abundant intracellular cation and plays a vital role in the transmission of electrical impulses in cardiac and skeletal muscle. It plays a role in acid base equilibrium. In states of acidosis hydrogen will enter the cell which will force potassium out of the cell. A 0.1 decrease in pH will cause a 0.5 increase in K+.

What would cause increased levels?

• Renal failure
• Hypoaldosteronism
• Addison’s disease
• Injury to tissues
• Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
• Ketoacidosis
• Hyperventilation
• Acidosis
• Infection
• Dehydration
• Burns

What would cause decreased levels?

• Hyperaldosteronism
• Excess insulin
• Alkalosis
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Cushing Syndrome