Adult Health Questions with Detailed
Answers 2026/2027 Set.
osteoporosis characteristics (5) - Answer 1. crepitus at joints
2. bone pain
3. unexplained fractures (#1 cause of hip and vertebral fractures)
4. loss of height
5. kyphosis
risk factors for osteoporosis (9) - Answer -are compounding:
1. female
2. female over 60, male over 75
3. post-menopause (R/T estrogen deficiency)
4. small frame
5. caucasian
6. lack of weight bearing exercise
7. alcohol
8. smoking
9. caffeine/carbonated beverages
diagnostic assessments for osteoporosis (2) - Answer 1. low serum calcium
2. bone density tests (DEXA, X-ray)
DEXA and what it involves - Answer dual-energy x-ray absorptometry
-noninvasive bone scan to determine density
-in preparation, hold calcium and biphosphonates for 24 hours
-positioning
serum calcium - Answer regulated constantly from building up or breaking down- doesn't
confirm osteoporosis, but points to it
prevention of osteoporosis (5) - Answer the goal is to maintain bone density
1. diet high in calcium, protein, vit. D
, 2. avoid carbonated and caffeinated beverages
3. avoid excessive alcohol and tobacco
4. perform weight-bearing exercise
5. take calcium and vitamin D supplements
medical interventions for osteoporosis - Answer the goal is to prevent fractures and further
bone loss, and possible to increase density
1. estrogen replacement
2. biophosphonates
3. calcitonin
estrogen replacement - Answer can increase risk for breast and ovarian cancers
biophosphonates (fosomax) - Answer -stops and may even increase bone density
-take it on an empty stomach with 8 ounces of water
-sit upright for 30-60 minutes after taking
-don't crush or chew
calcitonin - Answer -hormone placement that counters the parathyroid hormone and
mineralizes bone
-you need to take calcium so it can be utilized
spinal pain R/T osteoporosis - Answer vertebral fractures occur that causes the spine to begin
to curve. The spaniel cord can then become stretched or pinched. This can cause neuro pain,
even just with walking
-lumbar and thoracic ar particularly affected
nursing interventions R/T osteoporosis - Answer Goal: Keep pt. free from injury:
1. consult w/ dietary about increasing calcium, decreasing carbonated and caffeinated
beverages
2. consult w/ PT about exercise
3. discuss somking/alcohol cessation
4. environmental safety at home
environmental safety to prevent fractures - Answer 1. no throw rugs
2. tape down cords