Lab Interpretations

Question 1

Albumin Low

Answer 1

Liver disease
Kidney disease
Malnutrition
Infection

Question 2

Albumin High

Answer 2

Dehydration

Question 3

Bun High

Answer 3

Low kidney function (kidneys filter blood urea nitrogen)

• high nitrogen tube feedings/high protein diet
• GI bleeds
• dehydration (false high)

Question 4

Low Bun

Answer 4

Over hydration/ Hypervolemia
liver damage (liver makes BUN from protein metabolism)
Not enough protein in diet
rhabdomyolysis

Question 5

Total Protein

Answer 5

Liver or Kidney disease
Malnutrition
(changes with hydration)

Question 6

Pre-albumin

Answer 6

Low: Malnutrition

Question 7

Creatinine

Answer 7

Best Indicator of kidney function
-breakdown of muscle & protein metabolism and is released at a consistent rate

HIGH in low kidney function: Kidney’s are unable to eliminate toxins

LOW with muscle atrophy

Question 8

PT/INR

Answer 8

Evaluates body’s clotting ability

Question 9

PTT

Answer 9

Measures effectiveness of Anticlotting drugs

Question 10

Normal VS

Answer 10

RR: 12-20
HR: 60-100
BP: 120-80

140/90 Hypertension
180/120 Hypertensive crisis!