Question

On assessment of the patient with a renal calculus passing down the ureter, what should the nurse expect the patient to report?

a. A history of chronic UTIs
b. Dull, costovertebral flank pain
c. Severe, colicky back pain radiating to the groin
d. A feeling of bladder fullness with urgency and frequency

Answer 1

The nurse should expect a patient with a renal calculus passing down the ureter to report severe, colicky back pain that radiates to the groin, characteristic of renal colic.

Step-by-step explanation:

On assessment of the patient with a renal calculus passing down the ureter, the nurse should expect the patient to report severe, colicky back pain that radiates to the groin. This type of pain is characteristic of renal colic, which is caused by the obstruction and stretching of the ureter and renal pelvis, along with muscle spasm in an effort to expel the stone. The pain can be excruciating and is often described as one of the most intense pains experienced.