4 Renal, Metabolic, and Organ Function Tests Free Online FlashCards

What can rising BUN and creatinine suggest?

Both may rise when kidney filtration is impaired. BUN can also rise with dehydration, high protein intake, burns, or some medicines, so BUN alone does not establish kidney injury.

When can a low eGFR indicate chronic kidney disease?

An eGFR below $60\ \mathrm{mL/min/1.73\,m^2}$ can indicate chronic kidney disease when it persists for at least $3$ months. One result alone does not establish chronic disease.

What does an abnormal UACR suggest?

A urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio above $30\ \mathrm{mg/g}$ is abnormal and may indicate kidney damage, even when eGFR is $60$ or higher.

Why does an abnormal potassium result need attention?

Potassium that is too high or too low can affect heart rhythm and muscle function. Promptly escalate critical or unexpected results according to facility policy.

What fasting plasma glucose ranges indicate prediabetes and diabetes?

Fasting plasma glucose of $100\text{–}125\ \mathrm{mg/dL}$ is in the prediabetes range; $126\ \mathrm{mg/dL}$ or higher is in the diabetes range.

What A1C ranges indicate prediabetes and diabetes?

An A1C of $5.7\text{–}6.4\%$ is in the prediabetes range; $6.5\%$ or higher is in the diabetes range.

What does A1C reflect—and what does it not measure?

A1C reflects longer-term average glucose, not an acute glucose level. Do not use it to judge an acute glucose episode.

When may a random glucose support a diabetes diagnosis?

A random glucose of $200\ \mathrm{mg/dL}$ or higher with classic hyperglycemia symptoms may support diagnosis. Interpret an isolated reading in context.

What glucose levels mark alert and more serious hypoglycemia?

Below $70\ \mathrm{mg/dL}$ is an alert threshold; below $54\ \mathrm{mg/dL}$ is more serious. Severe hypoglycemia includes altered mental or physical status requiring assistance, regardless of the measured value.

What liver-test pattern suggests hepatocellular injury?

ALT and AST elevations out of proportion to alkaline phosphatase suggest a predominantly hepatocellular pattern.

What liver-test pattern suggests cholestasis?

An alkaline phosphatase rise out of proportion to ALT and AST suggests a cholestatic pattern, which may reflect reduced bile flow or obstruction.

How should albumin and PT/INR be interpreted in liver assessment?

Albumin and PT/INR can help assess the liver’s protein-making function, but other conditions affect them, so neither is interpreted alone. A prolonged PT/INR needs prompt clinical review, particularly with bleeding.