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The plan of care for a client with osteoporosis includes active and passive exercises, calcium supplements, and daily vitamins. How does a nurse determine that the desired effect of therapy has been achieved?

1. Mobility increases.
2. Fewer muscle spasms occur.
3. The heartbeat is more regular.
4. There are fewer bruises than before therapy.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Nurses measure the success of osteoporosis treatments by improvements in bone density, reduction in fracture risk, and better patient mobility. Increases in mobility and fewer muscle spasms are direct indicators of treatment efficacy, while heartbeat regularity and bruising are not directly related to osteoporosis management. 3. The heartbeat is more regular.

Step-by-step explanation:

The desired effect of therapy for a client with osteoporosis is often measured by the improvement in bone density and a reduction in the likelihood of fractures. Nurse practitioners typically monitor the efficacy of therapies such as active and passive exercises, calcium supplements, and daily vitamins through clinical assessments and the patient's reported outcomes. Mobility increases could be indicative of better bone strength and improved balance, which are important outcomes of osteoporosis treatment aimed at reducing the risk of falls and potential fractures.

The success of therapy can also be assessed by fewer muscle spasms, which may indicate enhanced calcium and vitamin D metabolism and the effectiveness of the supplementation in managing the disease. Regular and resistance exercises are crucial for maintaining and improving bone density, which can reduce the risk of fractures and contribute to increased physical stability and mobility. A nurse evaluates this through patient feedback and functional mobility assessments.

While heartbeat regularity and bruising are not direct indicators of osteoporosis treatment success, they may reflect overall health improvements or side effects of medications. The primary goals for treating osteoporosis, therefore, involve increasing bone density, reducing fracture risk, and enhancing a patient's mobility and quality of life.

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