Medical Laboratory Observer

Investigating elevated potassium values.(CLINICAL ISSUES)(Pseudohyperkalemia )

Medical Laboratory Observer | November 1, 2006 | Copyright

One of the most frequently asked questions regarding phlebotomy is, why are the potassiums high? The answer involves a variety of factors, which can have a significant impact on the care of a patient. When an abnormally high value exists, it frequently sets off a train of investigations looking for such severe diseases as:

* renal failure;

* adrenocortical hypofunction; and

* diabetes.

A falsely elevated potassium value (pseudohyperkalemia) discovered in a pre-surgical work-up can unnecessarily delay surgery and result in additional time in…

Read the rest of this article with a FREE trial to HighBeam Research

Related newspaper, magazine, and trade journal articles from HighBeam Research

(Including press releases, facts, information, and biographies)

Investigating elevated potassium values.(CLINICAL ISSUES)(Pseudohyperkalemia )
Magazine article from: Medical Laboratory Observer ...range. When elevated potassium results are...supported by other clinical findings...Physicians question elevated potassium results when...not fit the clinical conditions...usually learn of elevated potassium problems...

For more facts and information, see all results

Find more facts and information related to the article Investigating elevated potassium values.(CLINICAL ...