osteoporosis/osteoarthritis Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is osteoporosis?
Chronic low bone mass and deterioration causing increased bone fragility
What are common signs and symptoms of osteoporosis?
Back pain, spontaneous fractures, gradual loss of height
What are the risk factors for developing osteoporosis?
Age >65, female, excess alcohol use, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, family history, low calcium/vitamin D intake, smaller body frame
What diagnostic test is used to measure bone density in osteoporosis?
DEXA scan
What is kyphoplasty and how is it used in osteoporosis treatment?
A procedure that restores vertebral body height using cement
What type of medications are commonly prescribed for osteoporosis and what do they do?
Bisphosphonates (-dronates); they inhibit bone resorption
What dietary recommendations should nurses provide for patients with osteoporosis?
Encourage high calcium (dairy, spinach, sardines) and vitamin D (supplements, sunshine) intake
What type of physical activity should be encouraged for patients with osteoporosis?
Weight-bearing and low-impact activity
What lifestyle modifications should be encouraged to manage osteoporosis?
Smoking cessation, increased physical activity
What collaborative care might be involved for patients with osteoporosis?
Consult PT/OT to teach ambulation with assistive devices
What is osteoarthritis?
A slow inflammatory disorder of the synovial joints, typically affecting larger weight-bearing joints
What are common signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Joint pain/discomfort, stiffness, crepitus, possible disability and loss of function, Heberden nodes (distal), Bouchard nodes (proximal), unilateral involvement
What risk factor is especially linked to osteoarthritis?
Obesity (due to stress on weight-bearing joints)
What diagnostic test findings are associated with osteoarthritis?
X-ray showing progressive joint space narrowing; synovial fluid analysis: clear yellow with no signs of inflammation
What medications are prescribed for osteoarthritis?
NSAIDs, OTC creams like Bengay, intraarticular corticosteroid injections for local inflammation
What surgical treatments are used for severe osteoarthritis?
Knee and hip replacements if pain is unmanageable and patient becomes dependent
What complementary therapies can be used in osteoarthritis management?
Acupuncture and cupping
What nursing interventions are used to manage osteoarthritis symptoms?
Provide support resources, consult PT for assistive devices, apply ice for swelling, apply heat for stiffness, balance rest and activity, avoid prolonged standing
What lifestyle recommendations should nurses offer to patients with osteoarthritis?
Provide weight loss program resources if overweight, recommend stretching/balance exercises (e.g., Tai Chi), encourage aerobic activity
