In simple words: This blood test measures the level of potassium in your blood. Potassium is a mineral that's important for your nerves, muscles, and heart to work properly.A blood sample is taken, and a lab measures the potassium amount to check if it's within the healthy range.

This CPT code, 84132, encompasses the laboratory procedure for quantitatively measuring the concentration of potassium in a patient's serum, plasma, or whole blood sample.The analysis is performed using established methodologies such as spectrophotometry or atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). These methods involve the interaction of light with the sample to determine the potassium concentration. The result is a quantitative measurement of the potassium level, expressed in appropriate units (e.g., mEq/L or mmol/L).

Example 1: A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of hyperkalemia (e.g., muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias).A potassium level is ordered to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment., A patient is on medications known to affect potassium levels (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors). Regular potassium level monitoring is necessary to adjust medication dosages and prevent complications., A patient with chronic kidney disease requires regular monitoring of potassium levels due to the risk of hyperkalemia.

Physician's order specifying the potassium test.Patient demographics and identification information.Specimen collection documentation (date, time, method).Laboratory report with the potassium level and units.

** Normal potassium levels typically range from 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L or mmol/L, but this can vary slightly between laboratories.Always consult your lab's reference range for interpretation.Severe deviations from the normal range can have serious medical consequences.