Why are labs of kidney function obtained before a PCI?

• A. To assess kidney function for dehydration.
• B. To determine blood type.
• C. To assess the risk of contrast dye used during the procedure.
• D. To evaluate liver enzymes.

Answer: (C)

Before PCI, labs check how well the kidneys can handle the iodinated contrast used during the procedure. The contrast can injure the kidneys, especially in people with reduced kidney function, dehydration, diabetes, or older age. By measuring serum creatinine and estimating GFR, clinicians assess baseline kidney function to gauge the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy and to plan preventive steps (like limiting contrast volume or ensuring good hydration). The other options aren’t the goal here: blood type isn’t relevant to contrast risk, and liver enzymes assess liver function, not the risk of kidney injury from contrast.