Laboratory Medicine Program

Electrolytes, urine

Clinical Decription:
The role of electrolytes in the body are manifold. There are almost no metabolic processes which are not dependent on or affected by electrolytes. Among other functions of the electrolytes are maintenance of osmotic pressure and hydration of various body fluid compartments, maintenance of the proper body pH, regulation of the proper function of the heart and other muscles, involvement in oxidation-reduction (electron transfer) reactions, and participation as an essential part of cofactor of enzymes. Abnormal levels of may be either the cause or the consequence of a variety of disorders.
<br/><em>Tietz NW. Textbook of Clinical Chemistry 2nd ed. W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, 1982:849.</em>

Method: Automated method; Advia

Component Tests Used: Sodium, Potassium, Chloride

Reference Ranges Used:
Sodium < 220 mmol/d Potassium < 120 mmol/d Chloride < 250 mmol/d Diet dependent

Specimen Type: Urine
Volume: 20 mL (minimum: 10 mL)

Shipping: room temperature or 4C

Special Instructions: f 24 h urine is required, Discard first morning sample, collect all other urine for a 24 hour period, to include second morning sample. Record volume and aliquot.

Testing Schedule(s): on demand.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

For more information, call 416.340.5227 or 1.866.865.5227