A client asks the nurse, "How can I prevent the formation of kidney stones?" Which response by the nurse is most accurate?

A. This is the correct answer. After percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), the client may experience urinary retention due to swelling and irritation around the bladder or urethra from the procedure. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of urinary retention, such as difficulty urinating or a distended bladder, and take appropriate measures to relieve the obstruction.

B. Hyperkalemia is not directly related to PCNL. It may occur in certain medical conditions but is not a common complication of this procedure.

C. Hypoglycemia is not related to PCNL. It is a condition related to low blood sugar levels and is not a typical complication of kidney stone removal.

D. Hypertension is not directly related to PCNL. While some clients with hypertension may be at increased risk for kidney stones, hypertension is not a common complication of PCNL itself.

Questions

A. Fever and chills are more commonly associated with a urinary tract infection, which can sometimes be a complication of kidney stones. However, the severe pain described is more likely related to the presence of the stone itself.

B. This is the correct answer. Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, is a common symptom of kidney stones. As the stone moves through the urinary tract, it may cause irritation and small blood vessels may be damaged, resulting in blood in the urine.

C. Difficulty starting the urine stream is not a specific symptom of kidney stones. It may be seen in other urinary conditions but is not typically associated with stones.

D. The frequent urge to urinate may be experienced if the stone causes irritation in the bladder, but it is not the most common symptom associated with kidney stones.