ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

What is considered the normal creatinine range in blood chemistry levels?

1. 0.6 to 1.5 mg/100 mL

2. 4.5 to 6 mg/100 mL

3. 8 to 25 mg/100 mL

4. Up to 50 mg/100 mL

The correct answer is: 8 to 25 mg/100 mL

The normal creatinine range in blood chemistry is generally accepted to be around 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL, which translates to 6 to 12 mg/100 mL. Therefore, the most accurate understanding would align closely with both the upper limit of 1.2 mg/dL as being the standard reference for normal levels. Creatinine is a waste product produced from muscle metabolism, and its level in the blood is primarily indicative of kidney function. Elevated levels may signify kidney impairment or dysfunction, while levels that are too low can indicate other medical conditions or issues with muscle mass. The options mentioned that present higher ranges (4.5 to 6 mg/100 mL or 8 to 25 mg/100 mL or even up to 50 mg/100 mL) do not reflect the normal physiology of creatinine levels in a healthy individual. Those higher values would typically indicate significant kidney dysfunction or possibly damage, as they greatly exceed normal physiological levels. In practice, understanding the normal creatinine levels is essential for assessing renal function and interpreting laboratory results accurately in patient care.