What should be monitored if a teenager has significant kidney stones?

Monitoring for impaired renal function is crucial in a teenager with significant kidney stones because these stones can obstruct the urinary tract and lead to increased pressure within the kidneys. If the stones block the flow of urine, it can result in hydronephrosis, compromising kidney function. Regularly assessing renal function helps in identifying any deterioration early, allowing for timely intervention to prevent permanent kidney damage.

In this scenario, while urinary infections and electrolyte imbalances can occur in patients with kidney stones, they are not as directly related to the immediate threat posed by the obstruction and its potential to impair renal function. Allergic reactions generally do not have a direct connection to the presence of kidney stones, making them less relevant in this context. Thus, monitoring renal function is a priority to ensure the health and safety of the patient as they manage their condition.