Question

A community health nurse identifies an increase in the occurrence of osteoporosis-related fractures in female clients who are experiencing menopause. Which of the following primary prevention strategies should the nurse implement?

A) Provide calcium supplements to affected clients
B) Encourage the clients to participate in weight-bearing activities
C) Recommend hormone replacement therapy for all menopausal women
D) Schedule regular bone density screenings for all female clients

Answer 1

To prevent osteoporosis-related fractures in menopausal female clients, the nurse should encourage participation in weight-bearing activities as a primary prevention strategy, which supports the building and maintenance of bone mass.

Step-by-step explanation:

To address the increase in osteoporosis-related fractures among menopausal female clients, a community health nurse should implement primary prevention strategies. A particularly effective strategy would be to encourage the clients to participate in weight-bearing activities. These activities help in building and maintaining bone mass, which is crucial in reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Such exercises include walking, hiking, jogging, climbing stairs, playing tennis, and dancing, hence promoting osteoblastic activity and bone matrix production.

While regular bone density screenings are important for early detection and management of osteoporosis, they fall under secondary prevention measures rather than primary. The focus for primary prevention should be on lifestyle modifications and diet enhancements, which can include adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, cessation of smoking, reduction of alcohol consumption, and avoidance of drinking carbonated beverages that may contribute to bone density loss.