albumin low but Hb high ???

Specialties Urology

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Specializes in O/G ,emergency,internal medicidialysis.

I have one question: one of my patients lately Lab result :ALB 28 HB 14.6 ,what is the reason ? then what is the relation ship among ALB ,Protein, HB ?? thx!!

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Specializes in Hemodialysis, Home Health.

Ppl with kidney disease and/or on dialysis lose interest in protein foods, and eat very little protein leading to malnutrition. You will find that most dialysis pts have low albumin levels and it is important to encourage them to add more protein to their diet. If they don't care for meat, theere are other creative, and hopefully more palatable ways to sneak it in... egg salad or tuna sandwiches, p-nut butter, yogurt, dairy foods, chicken salad... the list goes on. A hard boiled egg or two daily...

Here's a good site for you.. I love this site.. it is SO informative and user-friendly ! :up: http://www.kidneyschool.org

Go straight to the "labs" section if you like, or just take your time and work through all of it, one category at a time.

Hope that helps! :)

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I agree that kidneyschool.org is a great site. There is an entire module(s) for dialysis techs with great info, as well as for patients. Albumin should be around 4.0 but I noted that writer stated 28?????? Hgb should not be that high and perhaps the patient is receiving more epogen than is warranted. Could be dehydrated? There are many reasons for a hgb of 14.. Please share with us what was done for this patient as that is a good learning experience for all. Goody One Shoe have you asked your nephrologist about this. I have found it interesting that although this is a great, wonderful support site, it also shows, in my thinking, that the clinics do not provide as much education as they should. Thanks, RenalRuth

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Specializes in Hemodialysis, Home Health.

The OP may have meant alb of 2.8 ???

I learned a LOT form our nutritionist who came in regularly to see our pts. She was very thorogh, brought in all kinds of neat pamphlets and informative flyers, etc. She was awesome.

Keep your ears and eyes open and you'll be amazed at what all you can learn ! ;)

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Another thought: Low albumin leads to third-spacing, which can lead to intravascular dehydration reflected in part by hemoconcentration.

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