Certified Clinical Transplant Nurse (CCTN) Practice Exam

A urine specific gravity of 1.005 or less suggests that the urine is dilute, which is indicative of conditions such as diabetes insipidus. This condition is characterized by an inability of the kidneys to concentrate urine due to insufficient production or response to antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Consequently, the urine produced is more water-like and has a lower specific gravity.

In the context of kidney function, a specific gravity in this range demonstrates that the kidneys are not retaining water efficiently, signifying dysfunction in concentrating urine. Thus, an understanding of urine specific gravity is essential in diagnosing and managing conditions that impact fluid regulation and balance in the body.