A client is prescribed alpha-blockers as part of the management of renal calculi. The nurse explains that these medications can help with stone passage by:

A. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) does not typically require general anesthesia. It is usually done under sedation or with the use of local anesthesia.

B. The procedure does not involve the insertion of a scope into the urinary tract. ESWL is a non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break up the stone from outside the body.

C. This is the correct answer. ESWL involves the use of high-energy shock waves that are focused on the stone to break it up into smaller fragments. The fragments are then passed out of the body through the urine.

D. A urinary catheter is not typically required after ESWL. The client may be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the stone fragments, but a catheter is not usually needed.

Questions

A. ESWL is a non-invasive procedure, and it does not require a hospital stay. It is typically performed on an outpatient basis.

B. This is not entirely accurate. ESWL is a non-invasive procedure that does not require general anesthesia. Instead, the client may be given sedation or local anesthesia.

C. It is essential to maintain adequate hydration after ESWL to help pass the broken-up stone fragments. Avoiding all fluids for 24 hours is not recommended and may lead to dehydration.

D. This is the correct answer. ESWL uses shock waves to break up kidney stones, and the client will need to remain still during the procedure to ensure precise targeting of the stones. The procedure is usually painless, but some discomfort may be experienced during the process.

Questions