Potassium: Results and Values (Serum Potassium, K+, Lytes)

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Alternate Names : Serum Potassium, K+, Lytes

The normal value for potassium in the blood is 3.5 to 5.1 mEq/liter. The potassium has to remain in this range for the heart to function properly.

Potassium can become too high because of conditions including:

Kidney problems

Technical problems with the blood specimen

Many things can cause the potassium to become too low including:

Diuretics, also called water pills

Severe vomiting or diarrhea

Cirrhosis of the liver

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Potassium: Preparation & Expectations

Author: Melinda Ratini, DO, MS
Reviewer: Kathleen A. MacNaughton, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed: 06/13/02

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