A client with a history of kidney stones is prescribed a thiazide diuretic. The nurse should monitor the client's laboratory values for which electrolyte imbalance?

A. Thiazide diuretics do not directly increase the excretion of uric acid. They are primarily used to reduce calcium excretion and prevent the formation of calcium-based stones.

B. This is the correct answer. Thiazide diuretics help reduce the excretion of calcium in the urine, which can be beneficial in preventing the formation of certain types of kidney stones, particularly calcium oxalate stones.

C. Thiazide diuretics do not directly increase the pH of the urine. They primarily reduce calcium excretion.

D. Thiazide diuretics do not dissolve existing kidney stones. They are used to prevent stone formation, not to treat existing stones.

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.