Question

A nurse is providing teaching for a client who is prescribed alendronate for osteoporosis. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Take this medication with 240 mL (8 oz) of milk.
B. Remain upright for 30 min after taking this medication.
C. Expect this medication to increase serum calcium levels.
D. Increase vitamin D intake to promote medication absorption.

Answer 1

When taking alendronate for osteoporosis, remain upright for 30 minutes post-dose, take with water (not milk), and understand that while vitamin D is important for bone health, it does not enhance alendronate absorption, and this medication does not increase serum calcium levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

Important Information for Alendronate Use in Osteoporosis Treatment

If you are prescribed alendronate for osteoporosis, it is important to adhere to specific instructions to enhance the drug’s effectiveness and reduce potential side effects. Alendronate is a bisphosphonate, a type of medication that slows down bone loss. Here are some key guidelines you should follow:

• Remain upright for 30 minutes after taking the medication to prevent esophageal irritation and promote absorption.
• Take alendronate with a full glass of water (240 mL or 8 oz) but not with milk, as calcium can interfere with the absorption of the medication.
• While vitamin D intake is crucial for healthy bones, it is not specifically proven to promote the absorption of alendronate, although maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is generally beneficial.
• Alendronate does not typically increase serum calcium levels; instead, it works by decreasing the rate of bone loss.

In addition to medication, you should maintain a healthy diet, engage in weight-bearing exercise, and minimize fall risks to manage osteoporosis effectively.

Answer 2

The nurse should emphasize to the client the importance of remaining upright for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate. So the correct one is B. Remain upright for 30 min after taking this medication.

Explanation:

Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medication commonly prescribed for osteoporosis. Remaining upright helps prevent the risk of esophageal irritation and ensures proper absorption of the medication in the gastrointestinal tract. When a patient lies down or reclines too soon after taking alendronate, there is an increased risk of esophageal inflammation or ulceration.

Alendronate works by inhibiting bone resorption and promoting bone mineral density. It is crucial for the medication to be absorbed efficiently to achieve its therapeutic effects. By staying upright for 30 minutes, the patient allows the medication to reach the stomach and be absorbed properly. The nurse should also advise the client to take alendronate with a full glass (240 mL or 8 oz) of plain water, not milk or other beverages, as they may interfere with the absorption of the medication. Providing this information ensures the patient's safety and maximizes the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment for osteoporosis.

In summary, the key aspect of the nurse's teaching is to highlight the necessity of remaining upright after taking alendronate to minimize the risk of esophageal complications and optimize the absorption of the medication, ultimately contributing to the management of osteoporosis.