A continuous analyzer for monitoring potassium concentration in biological fluids

The design, implementation and performance of a continuous potassium analyzer is described. The analyzer uses an ion-selective membrane electrode capable of monitoring large range variations in potassium concentration in biological fluids. Wide variations in the ionic strength of the sample is usually encountered and this prohibits accurate measurement of individual Ionic species. The analyzer Incorporates a means to compensate for large variations in Ionic strength to yield sufficiently accurate measurement of potassium concentration. In addition the continuous analyzer also includes a flow meter by which it is possible to obtain a quantitative measure of potassium over a specified period of time. The capability of the continuous analyzer in monitoring urinary potassium is addressed.