A 50-year-old postmenopausal patient who has had a hysterectomy ...

[tfester]

A 50-year-old postmenopausal patient who has had a hysterectomy has moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms and is discussing estrogen therapy (ET) with the nurse. The patient is concerned about adverse effects of ET. The nurse will tell her that:
 
  a. an estrogen-progesterone product will reduce side effects.
  b. an intravaginal preparation may be best for her.
  c. side effects of ET are uncommon among women her age.
  d. transdermal preparations have fewer side effects.

Question 2

A patient who is at risk for osteoporosis will begin taking the selective estrogen receptor modulator raloxifene (Evista). Which statement will the nurse include when teaching this patient about the medication?
 
  a. Raloxifene reduces the risk of thromboembolism.
  b. The drug is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
  c. Use of this drug increases the risk of endometrial carcinoma.
  d. Vasomotor symptoms are a common side effect of this drug.

[spencer.martell]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Transdermal preparations of estrogen have fewer adverse effects, use lower doses of estrogen, and have less fluctuation of estrogen levels than do oral preparations. Progesterone is contraindicated in women who have undergone hysterectomy. Intravaginal preparations are most useful for treating local estrogen deficiency such as vaginal and vulvar atrophy. Side effects of ET are the same at the patient's age as for other women using ET.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Raloxifene can induce hot flashes in patients taking the drug. It increases the risk for thromboembolism. It protects against breast cancer and does not pose a risk of uterine cancer.

[tfester]

TYSM

[cpetit11]

Excellent