The nurse is teaching a patient with hyperparathyroidism how to manage the condition at home.
Which response by the patient indicates the need for additional teaching?

Choice A rationale

Diagnostic surgery involves procedures done to confirm a diagnosis, such as a biopsy. In this case, the patient has already received a positive result on a breast tumor marker test, so the purpose of surgery is not to diagnose but to prevent the development of breast cancer.

Choice B rationale

Palliative surgery is performed to relieve symptoms or improve quality of life in patients with serious illnesses, often in advanced stages of cancer. The patient’s request for a bilateral mastectomy is not intended to alleviate symptoms but rather to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

Choice C rationale

Prophylactic surgery is performed to reduce the risk of cancer in patients with a high predisposition to certain cancers, such as those with a family history or genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2. The patient’s request for a bilateral mastectomy falls into this category, as it aims to prevent the potential future development of breast cancer.

Choice D rationale

Reconstructive surgery is performed to restore the appearance or function of body parts after trauma, surgery, or congenital defects. While patients undergoing mastectomies may later opt for reconstructive surgery to restore breast appearance, the patient’s current request for a bilateral mastectomy is to proactively prevent breast cancer, not for reconstruction purposes. .

Choice A rationale

Patients with hyperparathyroidism should maintain adequate hydration to help prevent kidney stones and other complications related to high calcium levels. Consuming less than 1 liter of fluid per day is insufficient and can lead to dehydration and increased calcium concentration in the blood, exacerbating the condition.

Choice B rationale

Regular physical activity, such as using a treadmill or walking, is beneficial for patients with hyperparathyroidism. Exercise helps to improve overall health, maintain bone density, and reduce the risk of complications associated with hypercalcemia.

Choice C rationale

A moderate-calcium, high-fiber diet is recommended for managing hyperparathyroidism. Adequate dietary fiber aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation, which is a common symptom of hypercalcemia. Moderating calcium intake is important to manage the condition.

Choice D rationale

Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medication that helps to prevent bone resorption and reduce calcium release into the bloodstream. It is an effective treatment for managing hyperparathyroidism and helps to maintain bone health. .