The nurse is caring for an elderly client of another race who was medically diagnosed with early osteoporosis. Which intervention is most applicable for this client?

Question

1. Institute an exercise plan that includes weight-bearing activities
2. Increase the amount of calcium in the client's diet
3. Protect the client's bones with strict bed rest
4. Provide the client with assisted range of motion exercising twice daily

Answer 1

1. Institute an exercise plan that includes weight-bearing activities

Rationale:
Osteoporosis is a demineralization of the bone in which calcium leaves the bone matrix. One causative factor is lack of weight-bearing activity. Weight bearing helps to move calcium back into the bone, thereby strengthening them. A standard intervention for those attempting to prevent or reverse osteoporosis is beginning an exercise plan that includes weight-bearing activities. Additional calcium in the diet after osteoporosis has begun is not thought to be effective. Strict bed rest may well make the osteoporosis worse because there is no weight-bearing activity. Assisted range of motion exercises are not weight bearing and do not help delay or reverse osteoporosis.