Question

A nurse is providing education to a client who is at risk for osteoporosis. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Increase intake of calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods.
B. Decrease intake of caffeine and alcohol, as these substances can contribute to bone loss.
C. Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, running, or dancing, to help maintain bone density.
D. Avoid smoking, as smoking can accelerate bone loss.
E. All of the above.

Answer 1

The nurse should inform the client that preventing osteoporosis involves increasing calcium intake, engaging in weight-bearing exercises, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse providing education to a client at risk for osteoporosis should include the following instructions:

• Increase intake of calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods.
• Decrease intake of caffeine and alcohol, as these substances can contribute to bone loss.
• Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, running, or dancing, to help maintain bone density.
• Avoid smoking, as smoking can accelerate bone loss.

Preventing osteoporosis entails a combination of adequate nutrition, especially in calcium and vitamin D, and regular weight-bearing exercises which can help in building and maintaining bone mass. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption also play an essential role in minimizing bone loss.