Potassium, 24-Hour Urine with Creatinine

Quest Diagnostics

Sample type: Urine

Requires fasting: No

Sample collection required at Quest Diagnostics location

Details

This test is crucial for evaluating hydration status and the overall balance of electrolytes in the body. It involves analyzing a 24-hour collection of urine to measure potassium levels, which play a key role in nerve function, muscle control, and heart health.

Biomarker summary

Creatinine, 24-Hour Urine
Potassium, 24-Hour Urine
Potassium/Creatinine Ratio

Additional details

Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected

Details

Potassium, 24-Hour Urine with Creatinine - This test is crucial for evaluating hydration status and the overall balance of electrolytes in the body. It involves analyzing a 24-hour collection of urine to measure potassium levels, which play a key role in nerve function, muscle control, and heart health.

What patients is this test right for?

This test may be recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms related to electrolyte imbalance or those with conditions affecting kidney function.

Symptoms of Electrolyte Imbalance:

Irregular heartbeat
Weakness or tiredness
Nausea
Excessive thirst or urination
Confusion or changes in mental status

What type of sample is required for this test?

10 mL urine aliquot from a 24-hour collection - no preservative is needed. It's important to collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period for accurate results.

Test Resources

For more information on how to properly collect a 24-hour urine sample and prepare for this test, please consult healthcare provider guidelines or visit relevant medical resource websites.

Average sample processing time

2–5 business days

Health categories

Patient instructions

Collection Options with Fullscript
Sample collection requires a test kit that can be picked up at a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.

Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)

Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
Collection Instructions:

Bring a valid ID.
Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.

Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
More Info: Quest Diagnostics collection guide

In-office phlebotomy instructions

Specimen

Preferred Specimen(s): 10 mL aliquot of a 24-hour urine collected in a no preservative plastic urine container
Alternative: NA
Minimum Volume: 2 mL
Collection Instructions: NA

Storage and shipping instructions