An Update Regarding Seasonal Illnesses

To help prevent the spread of seasonal respiratory illnesses, we strongly encourage all visitors to wear a mask while in ambulatory clinics or inpatient units. Surgical masks are available at hospital and clinic entrances. Patients with respiratory illnesses should also wear masks. Thank you for helping protect our patients, staff, and community.

Doctors use blood chemistry tests to check the levels of different chemicals and electrolytes, such as potassium and sodium, in the blood. Doctors also check the blood for high levels of calcium and creatinine (a compound passed from the body in the urine). The level of creatinine in the blood is directly correlated with kidney health. When the kidneys are damaged, the blood level of creatinine rises.