The nurse is providing instructions about a client's new medications. How should the nurse explain the purpose of probenecid, a uricosuric drug?

Choice A reason: Decreasing pain and burning during urination is not the purpose of probenecid, which is a drug that lowers the level of uric acid in the blood. Probenecid is used to treat gout, a condition that causes painful inflammation of the joints due to the accumulation of uric acid crystals. Probenecid does not have any effect on the urinary tract or its symptoms.Choice B reason: Increasing the strength of the urine stream is not the purpose of probenecid, which is a drug that increases the amount of uric acid in the urine. Probenecid works by blocking the reabsorption of uric acid by the kidneys, thus increasing its excretion. Probenecid does not have any effect on the bladder or its function.Choice C reason: Preventing the formation of kidney stones is not the purpose of probenecid, which is a drug that can actually increase the risk of kidney stones. Probenecid increases the concentration of uric acid in the urine, which can lead to the formation of uric acid stones. The nurse should instruct the client to drink plenty of fluids and avoid foods high in purines, such as organ meats, seafood, and alcohol, to prevent kidney stones.Choice D reason: Promoting excretion of uric acid in the urine is the purpose of probenecid, which is a drug that reduces the level of uric acid in the blood. Probenecid helps prevent gout attacks by preventing the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. The nurse should monitor the client's serum uric acid level, renal function, and urine output, and advise the client to take the medication with food to avoid stomach upset.