What is the normal blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level range?

The normal blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level range typically falls between 8 and 21 mg/dL. BUN is a waste product formed in the liver from the breakdown of proteins and is normally excreted by the kidneys. The measurement of BUN helps assess renal function and hydration status, among other clinical considerations.

In this range, it indicates that the kidneys are functioning appropriately to eliminate urea from the bloodstream. Values that fall outside this normal range may suggest various physiological states; for instance, elevated BUN levels might be indicative of kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or increased protein metabolism, whereas low levels might suggest conditions like malnutrition or liver disease.

Therefore, identifying BUN levels within the accurate range is critical for proper assessment of a patient's health, especially in the context of respiratory care and monitoring.