Osteoporosis
A disease of decreased bone density and increased fracture risk
Definition
Osteoporosis is a progressive skeletal disorder characterized by low bone density and microarchitectural deterioration, increasing bone fragility and fracture risk.
Risk Factors
- Postmenopausal women (estrogen loss)
- Advanced age
- Caucasian or Asian ancestry
- Family history
- Low body weight
- Smoking, alcohol use
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Low calcium/vitamin D intake
- Chronic corticosteroid use
- Thyroid disorders
Diagnosis
DEXA scan: T-score. Normal: greater than -1.0. Osteopenia: -1.0 to -2.5. Osteoporosis: less than -2.5.
Nursing Interventions
- Calcium 1,200 mg and vitamin D 800 to 1,000 IU daily
- Weight-bearing and resistance exercise
- Fall prevention: remove rugs, improve lighting, assistive devices
- Medications: bisphosphonates (alendronate, risedronate). Take with full glass of water, remain upright 30 minutes
- Smoking cessation, limit alcohol
- Avoid heavy lifting to prevent vertebral compression fractures
NCLEX Relevance
Bisphosphonate teaching: upright, empty stomach, water.