The healthcare provider suspects Paget's disease in a patient. Which imaging modality is most useful for assessing the extent and severity of bone involvement?

The typical pattern of bone involvement in Paget's disease is characterized by patchy areas of increased bone density (osteosclerosis) and disorganized bone formation. These areas of abnormal bone remodeling result in structurally weak and misshapen bones.

a. Uniform increase in bone density throughout the skeleton: This pattern of bone density is not characteristic of Paget's disease. The condition involves localized areas of increased density rather than uniform changes.

b. Focal areas of bone demineralization scattered throughout the skeleton: This pattern of bone demineralization is more characteristic of osteoporosis, not Paget's disease.

c. Diffuse increase in bone density with areas of focal bone loss: This pattern is not typical of Paget's disease. The condition primarily involves areas of increased bone density and disordered bone remodeling.

Assisting with range-of-motion exercises is important when caring for a patient with Paget's disease. Range-of-motion exercises can help maintain joint mobility and prevent joint contractures, which may occur due to bone changes in the disease.

a. Encouraging bed rest to prevent fractures: Bed rest is not recommended for individuals with Paget's disease, as it can lead to muscle weakness and joint stiffness.

c. Administering corticosteroids to reduce inflammation: Corticosteroids are not typically used to treat Paget's disease, as they do not address the underlying bone changes.

d. Providing a high-calcium diet: While adequate calcium intake is important for bone health, a high-calcium diet is not a specific nursing intervention for Paget's disease. Bisphosphonates are typically prescribed to address bone changes.