A nurse is assessing a patient's risk factors for osteoporosis.
Select all the modifiable risk factors that the nurse should address during the assessment.

Choice C rationale:

Kyphosis is the medical term for the excessive outward curvature of the spine that the nurse observes in this client.

Kyphosis results in a forward rounding of the back and is often seen in older adults with osteoporosis.

When osteoporosis weakens the vertebrae, they become more prone to compression fractures, leading to the characteristic hunched posture of kyphosis.

Choice A rationale:

Scoliosis is not the correct term for the excessive outward curvature of the spine observed in this client.

Scoliosis is characterized by a lateral (side-to-side) curvature of the spine, not a forward rounding of the back.

Choice B rationale:

Lordosis is also not the correct term for the excessive outward curvature of the spine observed in this client.

Lordosis is an excessive inward curvature of the spine, typically in the lumbar (lower back) region, creating a swayback appearance.

Choice D rationale:

Osteoarthritis is unrelated to the observed spinal curvature.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects joints, not the overall curvature of the spine.

"Monitor the patient's blood pressure." Monitoring blood pressure is not the primary responsibility when administering medication for osteoporosis.

While some osteoporosis medications may have potential side effects, blood pressure monitoring is not typically a specific requirement for these medications.

Choice B rationale:

"Assess for signs of an allergic reaction." Although allergic reactions should always be considered when administering medications, they are not the primary concern when administering osteoporosis medications.

Allergic reactions are generally rare, and other side effects related to the medication's effects on bone health are more critical to monitor.

Choice C rationale:

"Administer the medication with a full meal." While taking some osteoporosis medications with a meal may be recommended to enhance absorption or reduce gastrointestinal side effects, it is not the primary responsibility of the nurse.

Monitoring for side effects and ensuring proper administration and patient education are more critical aspects of medication management.

Choice D rationale:

"Monitor for side effects related to the medication." This statement is the correct answer.

The nurse's primary responsibility when administering osteoporosis medications is to monitor the patient for any potential side effects or adverse reactions related to the medication.

Osteoporosis medications can have specific side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues or musculoskeletal pain, which need to be assessed and managed appropriately.