Ammonia (NH3)

What is the Lab Name for Ammonia?

Ammonia

What is the Lab Abbreviation for Ammonia?

NH3

What is Ammonia in terms of Nursing Labs?

Ammonia (NH3) is a byproduct created when protein is broken down.  Ammonia is converted into urea in the liver, and urea is excreted by the kidneys. During liver disease, ammonia levels rise and can have a negative effect on the brain.

What is the Normal Range for Ammonia?

19-60 mcg/dL

What are the Indications for Ammonia?

  • Identifying liver disease
  • Monitoring hepatic encephalopathy
  • Evaluating effectiveness of treatment.

What would cause Increased Levels of Ammonia?

  • Liver Failure
  • Hepatic Coma (Hepatic Encephalopathy)
  • Reye’s syndrome
  • Total Parental Nutrition (TPN)
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

What would cause Decreased Levels of Ammonia?

  • Some Antibiotics:
    • Neomycin
  • Hypertension

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