What is the appropriate nursing action for a client with urolithiasis?

For a client with urolithiasis, straining the urine is a critical nursing action. This practice is essential because it allows healthcare providers to collect any stones that may pass through the urinary tract. Analyzing these stones can provide valuable information regarding their composition, which can aid in determining the underlying cause of the stone formation and guide future treatment options. Understanding the type of stones can also help develop a management plan that may include dietary changes or medication aimed at preventing new stones from forming.

While encouraging fluid intake, administering pain medication, and dietary modifications are all important components of care in managing urolithiasis, straining urine specifically facilitates immediate assessment and can lead to more effective long-term management of the condition.