In assessing a patient with urinary stones reporting severe pain and blood-tinged urine, what nursing concern is vital?

The primary concern in this scenario is alteration in urinary elimination. When a patient presents with urinary stones, they often experience severe pain and may have difficulty urinating or notice changes in their urine, such as blood-tinged urine. This can indicate that the stones are obstructing the urinary tract, leading to an alteration in urinary flow and potentially affecting the patient’s ability to void.

In such cases, it is crucial to monitor urinary patterns and any signs of worsening obstruction or irritation in the urinary system. Since the patient is experiencing severe pain and visible changes in urine, assessing and managing any urinary elimination issues directly addresses their immediate needs and prevents further complications, such as infection or kidney damage.

While other concerns, such as potential for infection or knowledge deficit, are relevant in the broader context of care, addressing alterations in urinary elimination is immediate and essential in a patient experiencing urinary stones and related symptoms.