Southwest · BUN/Creatinine Ratio Test
BUN/Creatinine Ratio Test in New Mexico
BUN/Creatinine Ratio Test is a laboratory test you can request directly. The BUN/Creatinine Ratio Test compares two waste products in your blood to help assess kidney function and fluid balance. It is a common blood test that provides clues about how well your kidneys are working.
Lab requirements in New Mexico
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the BUN/Creatinine Ratio Test in NM. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Fasting is required for this test — follow the collection lab's instructions.
- Preparation
- Preparation instructions vary by laboratory, so follow the specific directions provided by the collection facility. In some cases, you may be asked to fast or avoid certain foods before the…
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
This test measures the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine, then calculates their ratio. BUN and creatinine are waste products filtered by the kidneys, so their ratio can help indicate whether kidney function is normal or if there are other issues like dehydration or gastrointestinal bleeding.
What it measures
- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) — reflects protein breakdown and kidney filtration
- Creatinine — reflects kidney function and muscle mass
- BUN/Creatinine Ratio — helps assess hydration and kidney status
What the test involves
A standard blood draw from a vein in your arm is used to collect the sample. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this test to evaluate kidney function, especially if you have symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or changes in urination. It can also help distinguish between different causes of kidney problems, such as dehydration versus kidney damage.
Preparation
Preparation instructions vary by laboratory, so follow the specific directions provided by the collection facility. In some cases, you may be asked to fast or avoid certain foods before the test.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as a ratio of BUN to creatinine, along with the individual values. Reference ranges can vary between laboratories, so your results should be interpreted in the context of the lab's specific range and your overall health.
Before you go
- Whether fasting is required before the test
- Any medications or supplements that might affect results
- The specific reference range used by the laboratory
Cities
BUN/Creatinine Ratio Test in New Mexico communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.