Which maintenance action is recommended for a client recovering from uric acid stones?

For a client recovering from uric acid stones, the recommended maintenance action involves dietary and lifestyle modifications that help manage the levels of uric acid in the body. In this context, maintaining an appropriate level of hydration is crucial. Increasing fluid intake supports the dilution of urine, which can prevent the formation of stones in the kidneys.

Among the available options, taking a maintenance dose of antibiotics is not a standard practice for managing uric acid stones unless there is a concurrent urinary tract infection. This treatment does not directly address the factors contributing to the formation of uric acid stones, which stem from high levels of uric acid in the urine.

Conversely, increasing sodium intake can lead to increased uric acid levels and promote stone formation, while limiting fluid intake is counterproductive as it concentrates urine and increases the risk for stone formation. Similarly, while calcium intake has a role in preventing certain types of stones, it does not specifically help in managing uric acid stones and might even contribute to complications if handled improperly.

Thus, the effective approach to preventing uric acid stones typically involves focusing on hydration, dietary modifications to lower purine intake, and possibly alkalinizing agents, rather than relying solely on antibiotics as a maintenance measure.