A client with a small renal calculus is advised by the nurse to increase fluid intake. The client asks, "Why is this important?" Which response by the nurse is most accurate?

A. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is typically used for smaller stones that can be broken up into smaller fragments and passed more easily. It is not usually recommended for large stones.

B. This is the correct answer. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a procedure used to remove larger kidney stones. It involves making a small incision in the back and inserting a nephroscope to directly visualize and remove the stone.

C. Ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy is used for stones in the ureter, not in the kidney itself.

D. Cystoscopy with stent placement is used for conditions involving the lower urinary tract, such as the urethra and bladder, and is not typically used to remove kidney stones.

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.