Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

Which condition can lead to an increased level of creatinine in the blood?

1. Overhydration

2. Acute kidney injury

3. Low blood pressure

4. Allergic reaction

The correct answer is: Acute kidney injury

An increased level of creatinine in the blood is often a marker of kidney function. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, they may not be able to filter out waste products effectively, leading to elevated creatinine levels. Acute kidney injury results from sudden damage to the kidneys, which can be caused by various factors such as decreased blood flow to the kidneys, exposure to toxins, or obstruction of the urinary tract. In this condition, the kidneys' ability to excrete creatinine decreases, causing it to accumulate in the bloodstream. In contrast, while overhydration may dilute the concentration of certain substances in the blood, it does not inherently cause an increase in creatinine levels. Low blood pressure can affect kidney perfusion but is not a direct cause of elevated creatinine unless it leads to acute kidney injury. An allergic reaction is unrelated to kidney function and would not have a direct impact on creatinine levels. Understanding these relationships is crucial for recognizing the significance of creatinine levels in assessing renal health.