Which statement by the student nurse indicates the need for further education regarding pain management in older adults? (Select all that apply).

Choice A is wrong because women are more at risk for hip fractures than men.

This is partly because women lose bone density faster than men do, especially after menopause.

Choice C is wrong because an increase in estrogen will not weaken the bones. In fact, estrogen helps protect the bones from osteoporosis, which is a leading cause of hip fracture.

Some other risk factors for hip fracture include:

• Excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption
• Lack of physical activity
• Low body weight
• Tall stature
• Vision problems
• Dementia
• Medications that cause bone loss
• Cigarette smoking
• Institutional living, such as an assisted-care facility
• Increased risk for falls, related to conditions such as weakness, disability, or unsteady gait

Normal ranges for bone density vary by age and sex, but generally, a T-score of -1.0 or above is considered normal, while a T-score of -2.5 or below is considered osteoporotic. A T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 is considered osteopenic, which means low bone mass.

This is because anti-embolism stockings are designed to prevent swelling and blood clots in the legs by applying graduated compression, which is tighter around the ankle and looser as it moves up the leg. Applying the stockings in the morning before any swelling occurs ensures a proper fit and optimal blood flow.

Choice A is wrong because massaging the legs can dislodge a blood clot and cause a pulmonary embolism.

Choice C is wrong because wetting the stockings can make them harder to apply and reduce their effectiveness.

Choice D is wrong because removing the stockings before bathing can increase the risk of swelling and clotting, and applying fresh ones afterward can be difficult and uncomfortable.