| Interpretation (in setting of oliguria/AKI)
|
| <1%
|
Pre-renal azotemia — Kidneys are sodium-avid (hypoperfusion, hypovolemia, heart failure, cirrhosis). Consider volume resuscitation.
|
| >2%
|
Intrinsic renal disease — ATN, AIN, or glomerulonephritis. Kidneys unable to concentrate urine.
|
| 1–2%
|
Indeterminate — May be seen in early ATN or with mixed etiologies. Clinical correlation required.
|
| Important Caveats
|
- FENa is unreliable on diuretics — use FEUrea instead
- Low FENa (<1%) can be seen in contrast nephropathy, rhabdomyolysis, early obstruction
- Not validated in CKD patients
|