PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

For calcium oxalate stones, what dietary adjustment should be made?

1. Increase dairy products

2. Reduce oxalate in coffee, tea, and chocolate

3. Limit carbohydrates

4. Increase hydration

The correct answer is: Reduce oxalate in coffee, tea, and chocolate

The appropriate dietary adjustment for individuals prone to calcium oxalate stones focuses on the reduction of oxalate-rich foods, which includes items found in coffee, tea, and chocolate. Calcium oxalate stones form when calcium and oxalate combine in the urine to create crystals, leading to stone formation. By reducing the intake of foods high in oxalate, individuals can minimize the amount of oxalate excreted in urine, thus lowering the risk of stone formation. While increasing hydration is generally beneficial in reducing stone formation by diluting the urine, the specific dietary adjustment highlighted focuses on oxalate reduction as a direct method to prevent these stones. Limiting carbohydrates and increasing dairy products may not directly relate to the management of calcium oxalate stones and could either have variable effects or not address the specific issue at hand. Therefore, the emphasis on reducing oxalate in coffee, tea, and chocolate is a targeted approach for managing calcium oxalate stone formation.