Wk. 14 - Osteoporosis Flashcards

What is the primary difference between osteomalacia and osteoporosis?

Osteomalacia involves poor mineralization and softening of bone due to vitamin D deficiency, while osteoporosis involves loss of bone mass and bone demineralization, making bones fragile but not soft.

What is osteopenia?

A condition where bone mass is lower than normal but not low enough for an osteoporosis diagnosis.

What is the key pathophysiological problem in osteoporosis?

Bone resorption exceeds bone formation, leading to porous, fragile bones.

Which bones are most commonly affected by osteoporosis?

The vertebrae, hip, and wrist.

What hormonal change leads to primary osteoporosis in women?

Postmenopausal estrogen deficiency.

Name three medications that can cause secondary osteoporosis.

Corticosteroids, antiseizure medications, and aluminum-containing antacids.

List two non-modifiable and two modifiable risk factors for osteoporosis.

Non-modifiable: Older age, female/postmenopausal, family history. Modifiable: Low calcium intake, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excess alcohol/caffeine.

What are early clinical manifestations of osteoporosis?

Often asymptomatic until a fracture; may include back pain, height loss, or kyphosis.

What diagnostic test is used to measure bone density?

A DXA scan.

What lifestyle change can prevent vertebral compression fractures?

Avoiding activities that place excessive spinal compression (e.g., heavy lifting, forward bending).

Why is vitamin D important in preventing osteoporosis?

It enhances calcium absorption in the GI tract.

What is the main adverse effect of calcium supplementation?

Constipation or kidney stones.

What are the essential administration instructions for bisphosphonates?

Take first thing in the morning with a full glass of water, remain upright for 30 minutes, and avoid food or other meds during that time.

Why are bisphosphonates contraindicated in patients with esophageal disorders?

They increase the risk of esophagitis and can worsen swallowing problems.

What is the dosing frequency of zoledronate (Reclast)?

Administered IV yearly or every 2 years, depending on the regimen.

What side effect should the nurse monitor for after a zoledronate infusion?

Flu-like symptoms (fever, myalgia, arthralgia).

What is the mechanism of action of teriparatide (Forteo)?

It stimulates osteoblast activity, promoting new bone formation.

For which patients is teriparatide typically reserved?

Individuals at high risk for fractures or with severe osteoporosis.

What is a major safety concern when giving teriparatide?

It may increase the risk of osteosarcoma; therapy is usually limited to 2 years.

What teaching should be provided regarding orthostatic hypotension with teriparatide?

Tell the patient to rise slowly, especially within 4 hours after injection, and report symptoms like dizziness.