Urea
| Category | Biochemistry | ||||||||||
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| Test background |
Electrolytes are usually measured as part of a renal profile, which measures sodium, potassium, creatinine and urea. Serum urea correlates with catabolic states and increases during tissue/organ trauma, while circulating levels are a good indication of a patient’s overall hydration status and/or kidney function. |
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| Clinical Indications |
Suspected renal failure. Monitoring of patients receiving intravenous fluids Monitoring of established chronic kidney disease |
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| Reference range |
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| Sample & container required | SST (gold top) 24 hour urine collection | ||||||||||
| Sample volume | Blood: 0.5 mL. Urine: 24 hour collection | ||||||||||
| Turnaround time | Blood: 1 day. Urine: 2 days |