A nurse is caring for a client with a history of recurrent kidney stones. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the client's discharge teaching to help prevent stone formation?

A. Limiting fluid intake is not recommended to prevent kidney stones. Adequate hydration is essential to prevent stone formation. Dehydration can lead to a higher concentration of minerals in the urine, increasing the risk of stones.

B. Including more foods high in oxalate is not recommended to prevent kidney stones, especially if the client has a history of calcium oxalate stones. Limiting the intake of oxalate-rich foods is a preventive measure.

C. Avoiding all dairy products is not recommended to prevent kidney stones. In fact, adequate dietary calcium intake from food sources may help reduce the risk of certain types of stones, such as calcium oxalate stones.

D. This is the correct answer. Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water throughout the day is one of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones. Adequate hydration helps dilute urine and reduce the concentration of minerals that can lead to stone formation.

Questions

A. This is the correct answer. Kidney stone pain is often described as colicky, which means it comes and goes in waves of severe pain. The pain can be intense and cramp-like, causing the client to writhe or be restless.

B. Gnawing pain is not typically associated with kidney stones. Gnawing pain is often described as a persistent, dull ache that can be more chronic in nature.

C. Stabbing pain is sharp and localized and is not typically used to describe kidney stone pain.

D. Numbing pain refers to a loss of sensation, which is not characteristic of kidney stone pain.