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Creatinine Clearance (from Hand-Drawn Blood Sample)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures how well your kidneys filter waste products from your blood, using a sample drawn from your hand vein. It helps assess kidney function based on your blood and urine levels over time.

Quick summary

["A creatinine clearance test helps doctors check how well your kidneys are working by measuring how quickly waste products leave your blood."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36007-3
Short code
CT Hand-R
Synonyms
CT Hand-R
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

Creatinine clearance evaluates kidney function by estimating how much blood your kidneys filter each minute. It uses a simple blood sample (taken from your hand vein) and may also involve a timed urine collection, though some tests use hand-drawn blood alone to approximate results.

How Is This Test Done?

A healthcare provider will draw blood from your hand vein. If urine is needed, you may be instructed to collect a sample over a specific time period (often 24 hours), but some tests use only the blood sample to estimate clearance.

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your doctor may order this test to check for kidney problems, monitor kidney function after treatment, or assess kidney health in people with conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or chronic kidney disease.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results are typically expressed in milliliters per minute (mL/min). Lower than expected values may indicate kidney damage or disease, while higher values could suggest dehydration or other conditions affecting fluid balance.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Kidney Function and Health

Short name

Hand-Drawn Creatinine Clearance

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your doctor to discuss the meaning of your results.
What should I do if I have questions about my results?
Always discuss your test results with your healthcare provider. They can explain what your results mean in the context of your health and recommend next steps if needed.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For hand-drawn blood tests, you may eat and drink normally. If urine collection is involved, follow your doctor’s or lab’s specific instructions regarding fluids and timing.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy