A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has osteoporosis. Which of the following should the nurse recognize as the pathophysiology of osteoporosis?

Choice A Reason:

The large intestine does not secrete enzymes to digest food. This function is primarily carried out by the stomach and small intestine. The large intestine’s main role is to absorb water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter.

Choice B Reason:

This is the correct answer. The large intestine absorbs water from the remaining indigestible food matter, which helps to form stool. This process is crucial for maintaining the body’s fluid balance and for the proper formation and excretion of feces.

Choice C Reason:

Preventing the reflux of food into the esophagus is a function of the lower esophageal sphincter, not the large intestine. The large intestine’s role is more focused on absorbing water and electrolytes and forming stool.

Choice D Reason:

The large intestine does not produce vitamin D. Vitamin D is primarily synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight and can also be obtained from certain foods and supplements. The large intestine does, however, play a role in the absorption of some vitamins produced by gut bacteria, such as vitamin K.

Choice A Reason: Instruct the client to wear a hospital gown every day, even when out of bed

This intervention does not directly address the prevention of complications related to immobility. Wearing a hospital gown may be necessary for medical reasons, but it does not promote mobility or prevent complications such as pressure ulcers, muscle atrophy, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Encouraging the client to wear regular clothes when out of bed might actually promote a sense of normalcy and encourage more movement.

Choice B Reason: Have the client remain in bed for self-care activities

Keeping the client in bed for self-care activities is counterproductive in preventing complications of immobility. Prolonged bed rest can lead to muscle atrophy, decreased joint mobility, and increased risk of pressure ulcers and DVT. Encouraging the client to get out of bed and perform self-care activities while standing or sitting can help maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility.

Choice C Reason: Encourage the client to sit in the chair for all meals

Encouraging the client to sit in a chair for meals is an effective intervention to prevent complications of immobility. Sitting up helps improve digestion and respiratory function and reduces the risk of pressure ulcers by changing the pressure points on the body. It also promotes muscle activity and circulation, which are crucial in preventing DVT and maintaining overall physical health.

Choice D Reason: Elevate the head of the bed to 30° to 45° for medication administration

While elevating the head of the bed can be beneficial for certain medical conditions and for medication administration, it does not significantly contribute to preventing complications of immobility. This position can help with respiratory function and prevent aspiration during medication administration, but it does not promote overall mobility or prevent muscle atrophy and pressure ulcers.