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Kidney Function

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

Normal range 7–20 mg/dL (2.5–7.1 mmol/L (urea) SI). Specimen: Serum or plasma.

Also known as: urea nitrogen, urea.

7–20 mg/dLCritical: read below

Reference range

Conventionalmg/dL
720
SImmol/L (urea)
2.57.1
SpecimenSerum or plasma
Conventional range7–20 mg/dL
SI range2.5–7.1 mmol/L (urea)
Conversion factor×0.357 (conventional → SI)
Critical value> 100 mg/dL suggests serious renal impairment
PanelKidney Function

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.

Study aid

Your notes on Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

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