Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
People with type 1 diabetes often keep urine strips or a blood ketone meter at home.
Why it's done
- Blood sugar over 250 to 300 mg/dL
- Nausea, vomiting, or belly pain with diabetes
- Illness in someone taking SGLT2 inhibitors
Getting ready and what happens
- Follow your meter or strip instructions.
How the test is done
- Urine: dip a strip in urine.
- Blood: a finger prick with a ketone meter, or a lab draw.
What the results mean
| Result | Typical range for adults |
|---|---|
| Blood ketones | Below 0.6 mmol/L is normal; 0.6 to 1.5 is raised; above 1.5 is high |
| Urine ketones | Negative or trace is normal; moderate or large is high |
Normal ranges vary from lab to lab and can differ by age, sex, and pregnancy. Your report lists your lab's own range next to each result. A result a little outside the range is often not a problem.
High with diabetes
Call your provider and follow your sick-day plan.
When a result needs quick action
Call 911Moderate or large ketones (or blood above 3.0) with vomiting, belly pain, fast breathing, or confusion
Call your provider todayBlood ketones 1.5 to 3.0, or moderate urine ketones, especially with high blood sugar
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related medicines
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.