The nurse admits an elderly woman with a diagnosis of ...

[tiara099]

The nurse admits an elderly woman with a diagnosis of osteoporosis. The nurse plans which intervention to prevent complications related to this diagnosis?
 
  1. Pad the side rails of the bed to prevent fractures.
  2. Encourage a moderate exercise program to reduce bone loss.
  3. Administer analgesics for pain.
  4. Obtain an order from the physician for vitamin K supplements.

Question 2

The nurse is collecting data from the 68-year-old client about her living situation in order to assess her ability to care for herself and avoid injury.
 
  Which of the following statements indicate to the nurse that the client might be in need of interventions to ensure her safety? Select all that apply. Standard Text: Select all that apply. 1. The client lives in an assisted-living facility with her small dog.
  2. The client has a cataract in one eye.
  3. The client reads on an elementary level.
  4. The client takes acetaminophen for headache.
  5. The client chooses to use a cane when out walking.

[carlsona147]

Answer to Question 1

2
Rationale: The best intervention for this client is to encourage a moderate regular exercise program, such as walking, to reduce the loss of bone mass. While bones become increasingly fragile with osteoporosis, they do not become so fragile as to require side rail padding. The need for analgesics is not indicated, and is not inherent with the diagnosis of osteoporosis. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorous supplementation, not vitamin K supplementation, is useful in treating and preventing further bone loss related to osteoporosis.

Answer to Question 2

1,2,3
Rationale 1: The client lives in a relatively safe setting, but is at risk for falls and tripping over the dog. Cataracts diminish eyesight, which places the client at risk for tripping or falls. Reading at an elementary level could cause problems if the client is not able to read warnings on labels. Taking acetaminophen and choosing to use a cane when walking pose no particular safety risk.