When planning care for a client with right ureteral renal calculi, which of the following nursing diagnosis has the less priority of care while caring for this patient?
A.
Impaired urinary elimination related to obstructed flow of urine.
B.
Acute pain related to obstruction by the stone.
C.
Risk for urinary sepsis related to urinary stasis.
D.
Deficient knowledge related to need for prevention of recurrence of calculi.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
In planning care for a client with right ureteral renal calculi, the nursing diagnosis that has the least priority is:
D. Deficient knowledge related to need for prevention of recurrence of calculi.
Explanation:
When prioritizing nursing diagnoses, it’s essential to consider the immediate physiological needs of the patient. In this case, the presence of renal calculi can lead to significant complications, so addressing acute conditions takes precedence.
- Impaired urinary elimination (A) is a critical concern. Obstructed urine flow can lead to kidney damage, infection, and increased pressure on the renal system. Immediate interventions may include monitoring urinary output and facilitating the passage of the stone, making this diagnosis a high priority.
- Acute pain (B) is also a high-priority diagnosis. Renal calculi often cause severe pain due to obstruction and irritation of the urinary tract. Managing pain effectively is essential for the client’s comfort and can also reduce physiological stress, improving overall outcomes.
- Risk for urinary sepsis (C) is a serious concern linked to urinary stasis that can occur due to obstruction. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can arise from untreated urinary tract infections. Therefore, preventing urinary stasis and monitoring for signs of infection are crucial priorities.
- Deficient knowledge (D), while important, is the least immediate concern in this scenario. Education about the prevention of future calculi is essential but can typically be addressed once the acute issues—such as pain and the risk of infection—are managed. This nursing diagnosis can be scheduled for a later phase of care, as the patient’s stability is prioritized first.
In summary, while all diagnoses are important in holistic care, immediate physiological needs take precedence in this situation, making “Deficient knowledge” the least critical at this time.