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?
Autoimmune disorder affecting the bones
Buildup of inflammation in the joints
Increase in calcium levels in the blood
Bone loss in the cortical and cancellous bones
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason: Autoimmune disorder affecting the bones
Osteoporosis is not an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune disorders involve the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues, which is not the case with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is primarily characterized by a decrease in bone density and mass, leading to fragile bones.
Choice B Reason: Buildup of inflammation in the joints
While inflammation can affect bone health, osteoporosis is not primarily caused by inflammation in the joints. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis involve joint inflammation, but osteoporosis involves the loss of bone density and strength, not joint inflammation.
Choice C Reason: Increase in calcium levels in the blood
An increase in calcium levels in the blood is not a characteristic of osteoporosis. In fact, osteoporosis often involves a decrease in bone calcium content, leading to weaker bones. Hypercalcemia, or high calcium levels in the blood, is associated with other conditions such as hyperparathyroidism.
Choice D Reason: Bone loss in the cortical and cancellous bones
This is the correct description of the pathophysiology of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis involves the loss of bone density in both the cortical (hard outer layer) and cancellous (spongy inner layer) bones. This loss leads to bones becoming brittle and more susceptible to fractures.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Night sweats
Night sweats are not typically associated with liver disease. They are more commonly linked to conditions such as infections, hormonal imbalances, or certain cancers1. While liver disease can cause a variety of symptoms, night sweats are not a primary manifestation.
Choice B Reason: Acanthosis nigricans
Acanthosis nigricans is characterized by dark, velvety patches of skin, usually in body folds and creases. It is often associated with insulin resistance, obesity, and certain endocrine disorders. It is not a common manifestation of liver disease.
Choice C Reason: Hemosiderin staining
Hemosiderin staining refers to the deposition of iron in the skin, which can cause a brownish discoloration. This condition is more commonly associated with chronic venous insufficiency or hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes iron overload. It is not a typical symptom of liver disease.
Choice D Reason: Pruritus
Pruritus, or itching, is a common symptom of liver disease. It is often caused by the accumulation of bile salts in the skin due to impaired bile flow, a condition known as cholestasis. This symptom can be particularly distressing for patients and is a significant indicator of liver dysfunction.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Parent who has cardiovascular disease
Having a parent with cardiovascular disease is considered a non-modifiable risk factor. This means it is related to genetic predisposition and cannot be changed or controlled by the individual. While family history is important in assessing stroke risk, it is not something that can be modified through lifestyle changes or medical interventions.
Choice B Reason: Client’s age
Age is another non-modifiable risk factor for stroke. The risk of stroke increases with age, but it is not something that can be altered. While age is an important consideration in stroke risk assessment, it is not a factor that can be modified to reduce the risk.
Choice C Reason: History of sickle cell disease
Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells. It is a non-modifiable risk factor for stroke because it is inherited and cannot be changed. While managing sickle cell disease can help reduce complications, the condition itself remains a fixed risk factor.
Choice D Reason: Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant modifiable risk factor for stroke. It can be managed and controlled through lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and medication. Lowering blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of stroke, making it a key focus in stroke prevention efforts.
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