Albumin Lab Values

Overview Albumin Normal Value Range Pathophysiology Special Considerations Too High: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments Too Low: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments Nursing Points General Normal value range 3.5 – 6.0 g/dL Pathophysiology Produced in the liver Main protein of plasma Responsible for maintaining oncotic pressure Draws fluid into blood vessel “Protein pulls” Refer to Fluid & Electrolytes lesson  01.02 Fluid Pressures Transport protein Serves as amino acid Nutrition Poor indicator of nutrition Due to long half-life Pre-Albumin Better indicator of nutrition Special considerations Green top typically Usually sent with several other labs Chemistries Liver function tests Nutritional labs Elevated Albumin levels Dehydration Excess infusion of albumin Decreased albumin levels Liver disease Fluid loss Fistula Hemorrhage Kidney Disease Burns Congestive heart failure Long term poor nutrition Inadequate intake Inflammation Assessment Assess patient’s pre-albumin for nutritional status or indications of acute illness Nursing Concepts Lab Values Nutrition