A client with a history of renal calculus is prescribed potassium citrate. Which of the following is the primary purpose of this medication?

A. Limiting fluid intake to 1 liter per day is not recommended to prevent kidney stone formation. Adequate hydration is essential to

help prevent stone formation, as it helps dilute the urine and reduce the concentration of minerals that can lead to stone formation.

B. Decreasing dietary fiber intake is not a preventive measure for kidney stones. In fact, increasing dietary fiber intake can be beneficial for overall health.

C. Reducing calcium intake from all sources is not recommended to prevent kidney stones. In some cases, reducing dietary calcium intake can actually increase the risk of certain types of kidney stones.

D. This is the correct answer. Increasing citric acid intake can help prevent certain types of kidney stones, such as calcium oxalate stones. Citric acid helps to bind calcium in the urine, reducing the risk of stone formation. Citric acid can be found in citrus fruits and juices, and the nurse may advise the client to include more of these foods in their diet.

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.

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