Nutrition for Nurses

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BUN

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Nutrition for Nurses

Definition

BUN, or Blood Urea Nitrogen, is a measurement of the amount of nitrogen in the blood that comes from urea, a waste product formed by the liver. It is used to assess kidney function and hydration status.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. BUN levels can be influenced by dietary protein intake, hydration status, and renal function.
  2. Normal BUN levels typically range from 7 to 20 mg/dL.
  3. Elevated BUN levels may indicate impaired kidney function, dehydration, or high protein intake.
  4. Low BUN levels can be seen in conditions such as liver disease or malnutrition.
  5. Monitoring BUN is crucial in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) to assess the progression of renal impairment.

Review Questions

  • What factors can influence BUN levels in the blood?
  • Why might a patient with chronic kidney disease have an elevated BUN level?
  • How does dietary protein intake affect BUN levels?
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