Creatinine is produced continuously by the normal breakdown of muscle tissues. Kidneys filter creatinine which is excreted into urine. Blood tests for creatinine measure kidney function with high levels indicating poor kidney function. The normal range for creatinine is 0.84 to 1.21 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), but this can vary based on gender and age. Creatinine levels can temporarily be elevated due to dehydration, recent red meat consumption, and certain medications. Creatinine levels from 1.6 – 2.0 indicate Stage 1 kidney insufficiency. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a sudden decrease in kidney function within a few hours or days. AKI is common in hospitalized patients, especially the elderly and those in intensive care.

In this case study we examine medical conditions, creatinine levels, and demographic factors for a sample of patients who have been treated at a hospital.