Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with 24-Hour Urine Flow Rate and Kidney Function Assessment
This test measures your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months while also evaluating kidney function and urine flow rate.
["Helps assess long-term blood sugar control and kidney health in tandem."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81546-4
- Short code
- NM Vs bld flow+kid fn W RNC IV
- Synonyms
- NM Vs bld flow+kid fn W RNC IV
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- nm
- 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 This Test Measures
The **HbA1c** portion checks how well your blood sugar has been controlled over time by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells) that is coated with sugar. This provides an average reading over months, not just a single day’s blood sugar levels. The **urine flow rate** assesses how efficiently your kidneys filter and excrete fluids, while the **kidney function** portion evaluates how well your kidneys process waste and maintain balance in your body fluids.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test if you have diabetes, are at risk for kidney problems, or if your blood sugar levels are hard to manage. It helps ensure both your blood sugar and kidney health are being properly monitored together.
Sample Collection and Preparation
For the **HbA1c**, a small blood sample is taken from your arm. For the **urine flow rate**, you’ll likely collect urine over a set period (often 24 hours) in a container. The **kidney function tests** may require a blood sample and/or a urine sample, depending on the specific tests performed.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed for the HbA1c, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could affect kidney function tests. For urine flow rate, drink plenty of fluids the day before to ensure a full 24-hour collection. If you’re on medications that affect kidney function, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High HbA1c levels (above typical ranges) may indicate poor blood sugar control, increasing risks for diabetes complications like nerve damage or kidney disease. Abnormal urine flow rates or kidney function tests can signal underlying kidney issues, which may require further evaluation or treatment to prevent long-term damage.
Short name
HbA1c + Kidney Function + Urine Flow
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink normally before this test?
Will this test affect my diabetes management?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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