Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

Which lab value indicates potential renal impairment and is commonly measured?

1. Sodium

2. Calcium

3. Creatinine

4. Potassium

The correct answer is: Creatinine

Creatinine is a key indicator of renal function and is routinely measured to assess kidney health. It is a waste product generated from muscle metabolism and is produced at a fairly constant rate. The kidneys filter creatinine from the blood, and its levels in the blood can reflect the efficiency of the kidneys in performing this function. An increase in serum creatinine levels typically signifies that the kidneys are not filtering properly, indicating potential renal impairment. This is particularly important because creatinine levels can help diagnose acute and chronic kidney diseases, monitor the progression of kidney impairment, and guide treatment decisions. While sodium, calcium, and potassium are important electrolytes involved in various bodily functions, their levels do not specifically indicate renal function in the same direct manner as creatinine. For example, sodium levels can be influenced by fluid balance, and calcium levels can be affected by various factors unrelated to kidney function. Potassium is also crucial, as elevated levels can indicate kidney issues, but creatinine remains the primary focus for assessing overall renal function. Thus, measuring creatinine is a standard practice in evaluating kidney health.