For a client with renal calculi, what is the priority nursing action?

The priority nursing action for a client with renal calculi is to monitor intake and output. This action is critical because it helps assess the patient’s hydration status and kidney function, which are essential for the management of renal stones. Monitoring these parameters allows the nurse to evaluate whether the client is adequately hydrated, which can influence the likelihood of stone formation and help facilitate the passage of existing stones.

Additionally, monitoring urine output can help identify complications, such as obstruction or decreased renal function, which may result from the presence of calculi. This data is vital for implementing appropriate interventions and making clinical decisions to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.

While encouraging high fluid intake is also important for preventing stone formation and aiding in the passage of stones, it follows closely behind monitoring intake and output in priority, as the client’s current fluid status needs to be understood first. Similarly, administering pain medication is critical for comfort but is not as foundational as ensuring the underlying status of the kidneys and urine output. Teaching dietary modifications is essential for long-term management but is not an immediate priority in acute care scenarios.