Use of rapid ABG analyzer in measurement of potassium concentration: does it agree with venous potassium concentration?
BACKGROUND
Because extreme venous potassium abnormality can be life threatening, rapid measurement of potassium level is essential. Traditional biochemical analysis for venous potassium takes time and delays management in seriously ill patients. Analysis form arterial blood gas (ABG) may be an alternative method that is faster.


OBJECTIVE
To determine agreement between potassium obtained from venous and arterial blood gas in emergency patients, Siriraj Hospital.


METHODS
Cross-sectional study performed in 53 patients who presented to the emergency department of Siriraj Hospital. Potassium level measured from ABG was compared to venous route.


RESULTS
The mean of venous, arterial potassium and difference between each pair were 3.95, 3.46, and 0.49 mmol/L respectively. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient between each pair of two methods and 95% CI of agreement were 0.904 and 0.839 to 0.943, p < 0.01.


CONCLUSIONS
The agreement between ABG and venous potassium measurement are confirmed Clinicians can use ABG's potassium level as a guideline for treatment instead of using the conventional venous potassium level.
Wongyingsinn
Mingkwan
M
Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand simwy@staff1.mahidol.ac.th
Suksuriyayothin
Saovanee
S
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001158:Arteries; D001784:Blood Gas Analysis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011188:Potassium / Q000097:blood*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D014680:Veins; D055815:Young Adult
D011188:Potassium