Question

Keith, who is 73, lives in Kansas and broke his hip. He has been hospitalized for a week and is being discharged to rehab today. What is the likelihood that he will receive a prescription for osteoporosis drugs at discharge?

A) He will not receive a prescription because these drugs are not started until one year after a fracture.
B) The chances are roughly 1 in 4 that he will receive a prescription for osteoporosis drugs.
C) The chances are roughly 50:50 that he will receive a prescription for osteoporosis drugs.
D) He will receive a prescription for osteoporosis drugs because that is what the guidelines all recommend.

Answer 1

Keith is likely to receive a prescription for osteoporosis drugs as these medications, commonly bisphosphonates, help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of further fractures, especially after a hip fracture in elderly patients.

Step-by-step explanation:

The likelihood of Keith, a 73-year-old individual from Kansas who broke his hip, receiving a prescription for osteoporosis drugs at discharge is not definitively outlined in the provided options. It is a common practice to start medication for osteoporosis after a fracture since these medications, such as bisphosphonates, can slow down the breakdown of bone, preserve bone density, and significantly reduce the risk of future fractures.

Osteoporosis is a critical concern post-fracture, especially in the elderly, due to increased morbidity and mortality associated with complications from immobility such as deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, and pressure sores. Therefore, while the exact likelihood may vary based on individual medical assessments and treatment protocols, the chances of Keith receiving a prescription for osteoporosis medication are substantial and may be in line with what is commonly recommended in such situations.