A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has osteoporosis. Which of the following should the nurse recognize as the pathophysiology of osteoporosis?
Autoimmune disorder affecting the bones
Buildup of inflammation in the joints
Increase in calcium levels in the blood
Bone loss in the cortical and cancellous bones
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason: Autoimmune disorder affecting the bones
Osteoporosis is not an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune disorders involve the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues, which is not the case with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is primarily characterized by a decrease in bone density and mass, leading to fragile bones.
Choice B Reason: Buildup of inflammation in the joints
While inflammation can affect bone health, osteoporosis is not primarily caused by inflammation in the joints. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis involve joint inflammation, but osteoporosis involves the loss of bone density and strength, not joint inflammation.
Choice C Reason: Increase in calcium levels in the blood
An increase in calcium levels in the blood is not a characteristic of osteoporosis. In fact, osteoporosis often involves a decrease in bone calcium content, leading to weaker bones. Hypercalcemia, or high calcium levels in the blood, is associated with other conditions such as hyperparathyroidism.
Choice D Reason: Bone loss in the cortical and cancellous bones
This is the correct description of the pathophysiology of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis involves the loss of bone density in both the cortical (hard outer layer) and cancellous (spongy inner layer) bones. This loss leads to bones becoming brittle and more susceptible to fractures.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Alternate the use of ice and heat
Alternating the use of ice and heat is not typically recommended for the initial treatment of a soft-tissue injury. Ice is generally used during the first 24-48 hours to reduce swelling and inflammation. Heat can be applied later to help relax muscles and improve blood flow, but it should not be used immediately after an injury as it can increase swelling.
Choice B Reason: Apply ice pack intermittently
Applying the ice pack intermittently is important to prevent skin damage and frostbite. It is generally recommended to apply ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, followed by a break of at least 20 minutes before reapplying. This helps to reduce swelling and pain without causing harm to the skin and underlying tissues.
Choice C Reason: Do not place ice pack directly on the skin
Placing an ice pack directly on the skin can cause frostbite and damage to the skin and tissues. It is important to wrap the ice pack in a thin cloth or towel before applying it to the injured area. This provides a barrier that protects the skin while still allowing the cold to penetrate and reduce swelling.
Choice D Reason: Leave ice pack on for no more than 20 minutes at a time
Leaving the ice pack on for no more than 20 minutes at a time is crucial to prevent frostbite and skin damage. Prolonged exposure to cold can cause harm, so it is important to limit the duration of each application and take breaks in between.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Parent who has cardiovascular disease
Having a parent with cardiovascular disease is considered a non-modifiable risk factor. This means it is related to genetic predisposition and cannot be changed or controlled by the individual. While family history is important in assessing stroke risk, it is not something that can be modified through lifestyle changes or medical interventions.
Choice B Reason: Client’s age
Age is another non-modifiable risk factor for stroke. The risk of stroke increases with age, but it is not something that can be altered. While age is an important consideration in stroke risk assessment, it is not a factor that can be modified to reduce the risk.
Choice C Reason: History of sickle cell disease
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells. It is a non-modifiable risk factor for stroke because it is inherited and cannot be changed. While managing sickle cell disease can help reduce complications, the condition itself remains a fixed risk factor.
Choice D Reason: Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant modifiable risk factor for stroke. It can be managed and controlled through lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and medication. Lowering blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of stroke, making it a key focus in stroke prevention efforts.
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