Lab Name:
Albumin
What is Albumin () in terms of Nursing Labs?
Albumin is a transport protein in the blood. It helps maintain the oncotic pressure of the blood. Albumin levels will drop if synthesis is slowed, protein intake is inadequate, or there are increased losses. Albumin has a long half life, however, so levels are not a good indicator of acute illness.
What would cause decreased levels of Albumin?
- Inadequate intake
- Liver disease
- Inflammation
- Chronic disease
- Losses (fistula, hemorrhage, kidney disease, burns)
- Over hydration
- Increased catabolism
- Congestive heart failure
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Date Published - Apr 12, 2016
Date Modified - Apr 30, 2019
