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Metabolism & Renalmmol/L

Potassium

Potassium governs nerve conduction and muscle contractions, most critically within cardiac muscle fibers.

Common laboratory aliases and abbreviations:PotassiumKaliémieKSerum potassiumPotasioPotasemia

Test your personal value

Enter the number from your lab report to instantly see how it compares to reference ranges.

mmol/L
4.25mmol/L
3.5
5
‹ LowRange: 3.5 – 5 mmol/LHigh ›

Physiological Reference Ranges

The ranges below represent standard adult physiological values. Your laboratory's printed reference range always takes precedence.

Adults (general)

3.5 – 5 mmol/L

Adult females

3.5 – 5 mmol/L

Adult males

3.5 – 5 mmol/L

Common alternative units:
mEq/L(×1 mmol/L)

What does a low result mean?

A modest dip can occur after mild digestive upset, heavy sweating, or certain diuretic medications.

What does a high result mean?

A mild elevation is very frequently an in-vitro sampling artifact caused by tourniquet tightness or subtle hemolysis.

Questions ready for your doctor

Bring these questions to your next consultation to discuss with your healthcare practitioner:

  • Could this slight rise be a benign sampling artifact?
  • Do any of my medications influence potassium levels?
  • Should a quick confirmatory draw be done without prolonged tourniquet?

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Important information — Medical notice

ScanMyLab is for informational purposes only. It does not provide a diagnosis and never replaces the advice of your doctor or laboratory.