Urea Nitrogen

Additional Information:

Serum free from hemolysis is the recommended specimen.

UFHPL Epic order code: LAB140

CPT Code(s):

84520

Specimen Requirements:

Type: Serum or plasma

Container/Tube: Serum gel or heparinized plasma

Sample Volume: Submit the full tube.

Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL serum or plasma

Preparation:

  1. Send specimens in their original tubes.
  2. Centrifuge the tube if there is a delay in transport of more than 1 hour.
Storage:

  • Samples are stable for up to 1 day at 15 – 25°C.
  • Samples are stable for up to 3 days at 2 – 8ºC.

Unacceptable Conditions: Samples with moderate or marked hemolysis will be rejected.

Specimen Retention Time: 5 days

Use:

Measurements of urea nitrogen are used in the diagnosis and treatment of certain renal and metabolic disorders. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels are a measure of kidney function and also of pre- and post-renal conditions.

Methodology:

Urease, UV

Reported:

Within 24 hours

Reference Values:

7-25 mg/dL