What is the normal range for serum creatinine levels?

The normal range for serum creatinine levels is crucial for assessing kidney function. The correct answer reflects a typical range of 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL, which is considered normal for adults. This level indicates that the kidneys are effectively filtering waste from the blood. Elevated levels of serum creatinine can signal impaired kidney function, while lower levels may not usually indicate a significant concern, except in some specific conditions.

Serum creatinine levels are generally measured to evaluate renal performance and monitor conditions affecting the kidneys. Maintaining levels within this normal range is vital as it helps healthcare providers gauge the overall health of a patient’s renal system and make informed decisions regarding treatment and management.

Understanding this normal range aids nurses in recognizing when a patient's creatinine levels fall outside these parameters, thus providing insight for further diagnostic evaluation or intervention.