CHAPTER 6 Musculoskeletal System^275
- Explain to the patient:
- When and how to take medications.
- Importance of completing antibiotic medication.
- How to flush venous access device.
- Signs of infiltration, clotting of venous access device.
- When to call for assistance with venous access.
Osteoporosis
WHAT WENT WRONG?
This is a decrease in bone density, making bones more brittle and increasing the
risk of fracture. The body continuously replaces older bone with new bone through
a balance between the osteoblastic and osteoclastic activity. When bone-building
activity does not keep up with bone-resorption activity, the structural integrity of
the bone is compromised.
Increased age, lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, having a small frame,
being Caucasian, Asian, or female all increase the risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis
can also occur as a secondary disease, due to another condition. These causes
include use of medications such as corticosteroids or some anticonvulsants, hor-
monal disorders (Cushing’s or thyroid), and prolonged immobilization.
PROGNOSIS
The risk of fracture is significantly increased in patients with osteoporosis. The
most common fracture sites in patients with osteoporosis are hip, vertebrae, pelvis,
and distal radius. Some fractures such as vertebral compression fractures affect
quality of life. There is increased morbidity and mortality in patients who sus-
tain a hip fracture. The cost of healthcare for these patients is significant, and
includes the immediate care of the fracture as well as the necessary rehabilitation.
HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Asymptomatic
- Back pain due to compression fractures in vertebral bodies
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