Question

A client with polymyositis rheumatica has been taking corticosteroids for an extended period of time. Which information will the nurse instruct the client with to prevent the development of osteoporosis? Select all that apply.

a. "Smoking cessation classes are held every week at the community center."
b. "Increase your intake of foods that contain calcium and vitamin D."
c. "Remember to limit your intake of alcohol."
d. "Perform weight-bearing exercises several times a week."
e. "Swimming would be the best exercise for you to do."

Answer 1

To prevent osteoporosis, a nurse should advise a client on long-term corticosteroids to increase intake of calcium and vitamin D, perform weight-bearing exercises, quit smoking, and limit alcohol consumption. Swimming is less effective as it is not a weight-bearing exercise. so, option e is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

To prevent the development of osteoporosis in a client with polymyositis rheumatica who has been taking corticosteroids, the nurse should instruct the client to:

1. "Increase your intake of foods that contain calcium and vitamin D." Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health. Calcium supports the structure of bones, while vitamin D improves calcium absorption.
2. "Perform weight-bearing exercises several times a week." Weight-bearing exercises, such as weight training and dancing, help to maintain and increase bone mineral density.
3. "Smoking cessation classes are held every week at the community center." Smoking can lower bone density and quitting smoking is an important step to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
4. "Remember to limit your intake of alcohol." Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to bone loss.

The information about swimming being the best exercise is less relevant for preventing osteoporosis, as swimming does not stress bones as much as weight-bearing exercises. However, it can be beneficial for conditions like osteoarthritis that require lower-impact activities.