Final answer:
An elevated serum creatinine level of 2.2 mg/dl suggests potential kidney impairment and warrants further evaluation of renal function. The patient's medication regimen should be reviewed for nephrotoxic agents, and additional tests such as BUN and blood potassium levels may be necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient with a serum creatinine level of 2.2 mg/dl, which is above the normal range (0.7 to 1.2 mg/dl), indicates a potential impairment in kidney function. A creatinine clearance test is a standard procedure used to measure the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). This test is vital as creatinine is produced naturally by the body, freely filtered by the glomerulus, and minimally secreted by the renal tubules. If the patient is on multiple medications, there could be a direct nephrotoxic effect or an indirect effect through drug interactions that may impair renal function.
Considering the elevated serum creatinine, the patient might be experiencing acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, or a febrile disease that could affect the creatinine coefficient. The renal function should be assessed further through additional tests, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and potential factors like blood potassium levels should also be evaluated to prevent complications like hyperkalemia.
It is essential to consider the patient's current medication regimen and possibly consult a pharmacist for a comprehensive medication review to identify any potential nephrotoxic agents that may need dosage adjustments or discontinuation.