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.