# Potassium (K$^+$) --- **Potassium** ion (**K$^+$**) is an [[ion]] that we use as a very important [[electrolytes|electrolyte]]. We generally have it in high concentrations in our [[body fluids|intracellular fluids]], where it functions along with [[sodium]] to maintain [[fluid volume balance]], [[blood pressure]], and [[membrane potential]]/[[action potential|action potentials]]. This is a problem when there is a lot of cell damage, like in a traumatic event, all those potassiums spill out of the cells, which leads to hypokalemia. >[!science] Normal Value >The normal value of K+ is **3.5 - 5** mEq/L >>[!abstract]- Visualization >>![[metabolic panel values.png]] Potassium's main job is nerve cell conduction, so we see a lot of function with the heart and muscles affected by potassium. ## Elemental Potassium **Potassium** is an [[element#Alkai Metals|alkali metal]] that is highly reactive. It often forms an [[ionic bond]] with stuff and things. ## Imbalances with Potassium - [[hyperkalemia]] is a condition with too high of potassium in the blood. - [[hypokalemia]] is a condition with to low of potassium in the blood. ___