Hydronephrosis is the dilation of the renal pelvis and calyces caused by obstruction of urine flow from the kidneys. It can cause symptoms ranging from pain to urinary tract infections to kidney damage. Diagnosis involves physical examination, blood tests, urinalysis and imaging like ultrasound or IVU. Treatment depends on the severity and includes drainage of urine through nephrostomy tubes or stents, pyeloplasty to reconstruct the renal pelvis, or suprapubic catheters for lower urinary tract obstruction. Nursing care focuses on monitoring for infections, managing pain and fluids, and educating on symptoms that require medical attention to prevent long term kidney damage from obstruction.