What is a key management technique for kidney stones?

Hydration with oral fluids is a key management technique for kidney stones because it helps to dilute the urine and can facilitate the passage of small stones through the urinary tract. Increased fluid intake is often the first line of treatment advised for patients experiencing kidney stones, as it encourages urination, potentially allowing stones to pass without the need for more invasive treatments.

While intravenous fluids might be necessary in some scenarios—such as in cases of severe dehydration, obstruction, or when a patient cannot tolerate oral fluids—hydration through oral fluids is usually preferred and effective for most cases of kidney stones. Immediate surgical intervention is generally reserved for complicated cases, such as those with significant obstruction or infection, while prolonged bed rest is not a recommended treatment for kidney stones, as movement can sometimes aid in the passage of stones.