A nurse is preparing to assess the bone mineral density of a client suspected to have osteoporosis.
Which diagnostic test should the nurse anticipate using for this assessment?

This response by the nurse is accurate.

Bisphosphonates are a class of medications commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis.

They work by inhibiting bone resorption, which means they reduce the activity of cells that break down bone tissue (osteoclasts).

By doing so, bisphosphonates help prevent further bone loss and can increase bone density over time.

This mechanism of action is essential in managing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures.

Choice A rationale:

This statement is not accurate.

Bisphosphonates do not increase calcium absorption in the intestines.

Instead, they primarily focus on regulating bone turnover and preventing bone resorption.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is also not accurate.

Bisphosphonates do not stimulate bone formation or promote collagen production.

Their primary role is to reduce bone resorption.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

Bisphosphonates are not primarily used to reduce pain associated with osteoporosis.

While they can indirectly reduce pain by preventing fractures, their main goal is to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

Choice A rationale:

Kyphosis is the most likely nursing assessment finding consistent with the client's complaints.

Kyphosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that causes a forward rounding of the back.

It is commonly associated with osteoporosis in older adults, especially postmenopausal women.

As bone density decreases due to osteoporosis, the vertebrae become more susceptible to compression fractures, which can lead to the characteristic hunched posture seen in kyphosis.

This abnormal curvature can cause back pain and a noticeable loss of height, aligning with the client's complaints.

Choice B rationale:

Joint stiffness is less likely to be the primary finding in this case.

While osteoporosis can lead to joint discomfort and stiffness, it is not the primary cause of the client's symptoms.

The client's complaint of back pain and loss of height is more indicative of a spinal issue such as kyphosis.

Choice C rationale:

Muscle weakness is also less likely to be the primary finding in this case.

While muscle weakness can contribute to posture changes and back pain, it is often a secondary effect of conditions like osteoporosis.

The client's primary concern is the change in height and persistent back pain, which are better explained by kyphosis.

Choice D rationale:

Decreased appetite is unrelated to the client's musculoskeletal complaints.

It is not a typical symptom of osteoporosis or kyphosis.

Therefore, it is not the most likely nursing assessment finding consistent with the client's complaints.