Convert any Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) result between units on the unit converter.
What is the normal range for Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)?
The standard teaching reference range for Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) is 7–20 mg/dL in conventional units, or 2.5–7.1 mmol/L (urea) in SI units. This value is measured in serum or plasma.
A commonly taught critical (panic) value is > 100 mg/dL suggests serious renal impairment. Critical results are reported to the provider immediately under your facility's policy.
Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.
Above the range
Common causes of a high Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
Kidney injury or failure
Dehydration
GI bleeding
High protein intake or catabolism
Below the range
Common causes of a low Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
Liver failure
Overhydration
Malnutrition / low protein intake
Pregnancy
At the bedside
Nursing considerations
Rises with dehydration even when kidneys are healthy — read with creatinine.
Elevated BUN contributes to the nausea and confusion of uremia.