PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What combination of medications is used for managing pain associated with nephrolithiasis?

1. Antibiotics and diuretics

2. NSAIDs or opioids and alpha adrenergic blockers

3. Steroids and antihypertensives

4. Antihistamines and analgesics

The correct answer is: NSAIDs or opioids and alpha adrenergic blockers

The combination of NSAIDs or opioids and alpha adrenergic blockers is effective for managing pain associated with nephrolithiasis, which is the medical term for kidney stones. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are commonly used to provide pain relief by reducing inflammation and alleviating discomfort associated with renal colic. These medications can effectively address the sharp and severe pain that patients typically experience when kidney stones obstruct the urinary tract. Additionally, alpha adrenergic blockers serve a dual purpose in this context. They help relax the smooth muscles in the ureter, potentially facilitating the passage of the stone. By decreasing ureteral resistance, these medications can minimize the intensity of the pain, making them a useful adjunct to analgesics in the treatment protocol for nephrolithiasis. The other options do not align with the standard management strategies for kidney stones. Antibiotics and diuretics do not directly address the pain; steroids and antihypertensives are not indicated for pain management in this scenario, and antihistamines typically do not play a role in treating the pain associated with nephrolithiasis. Thus, the combination of NSAIDs or opioids with alpha adrenergic blockers provides a comprehensive approach to managing both pain and the