Creatinine (Cr) Lab Values

Overview Creatinine Normal Value Range Pathophysiology Special considerations Elevations in creatinine Decreases in creatinine Nursing Points General Normal values 0.7 – 1.4 mg/dL Pathophysiology Muscle breakdown and use Creatine -> creatinine Released into bloodstream Filtered through kidneys Excreted in urine Creatinine more specific to kidney function Special considerations Green top Submitted with renal panels or chems Creatinine clearance Tests creatinine in urine Compare to serum creatinine 24 hour urine Toss first urine sample, then start On ice Increased creatinine values Renal disease Rhabdomyolysis Muscle breakdown Trauma Extreme workouts Congestive heart failure Dehydration Shock Decreased creatinine values Loss of muscle mass Muscular dystrophy Decreased protein intake Pregnancy Liver disease Assessment Assess patient’s nutritional status Assess urine output Consider other causes for increase in creatinine Muscle Therapeutic Management Treat cause of renal insufficiency Dialysis vs medication Nursing Concepts Lab Values Elimination