A patient is admitted to the medical unit for treatment of hydronephrosis. While performing an assessment, the nurse would expect:

Explanation

• Hydronephrosis is a swelling of one or both kidneys due to a build up of fluid, usually because there is a blockage in the ureter(s) preventing drainge of urine into the bladder. Common causes of blockages include kidney stones, blood clots, scar tissue, tumors, or an enlarged prostate.

• Patients with hydronephrosis usually have colicky flank pain with a sudden onset. Depending on the cause patients may also experience nausea, vomiting, dysuria, fever, hematuria, frequent urination, or fever.

• The patient's urine would be more acidic due to the destruction of the nephrons. Normal urine pH is around 6.

• Anemia and distention are not associated with hydronephrosis.

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