A 60-year-old female patient is about to begin long-term therapy ...

[xclash]

A 60-year-old female patient is about to begin long-term therapy with a glucocorticoid. Which of the following will be important for minimizing the risk of osteoporosis?
 
  a. Baseline vitamin D level
  b. Calcium and vitamin D supplements
  c. Estrogen therapy
  d. Skeletal x-rays before treatment

Question 2

A child is to begin long-term glucocorticoid therapy. The parents ask the nurse about the effects of this drug on the child's growth. Which response by the nurse is correct?
 
  a. A smaller dose may be indicated for your child.
  b. Ask your provider about every other day dosing.
  c. Long-acting glucocorticoid preparations should prevent growth suppression.
  d. Oral glucocorticoids rarely cause growth suppression.

[livaneabi]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Calcium and vitamin D supplements can help minimize the patient's risk of developing osteoporosis. A baseline vitamin D level is not recommended. Estrogen therapy can help in postmenopausal women, but its risks outweigh its benefits. Patients should undergo evaluation of the bone mineral density of the lower spine, not skeletal x-rays.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Growth retardation can be minimized with alternate day dosing of glucocorticoids. Giving smaller doses does not prevent this effect with long-term therapy. Long-acting glucocorticoids do not prevent this effect. Oral glucocorticoids have the same side effects.

[xclash]

Thank you!

[livaneabi]

Always glad to help...