Master Osteoporosis Interventions with Picmonic for Nursing RN

Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium. Though most people get enough of the vitamin in their diet or from the sun, Vitamin D supplements are recommended in postmenopausal women, older men, and those who have limited exposure to the sun. Typically, 20 minutes in the sun without sunscreen is considered sufficient; however, many individuals prefer to take a supplement rather than not wear sunscreen.

Bisphosphonates, such as alendronate (Fosamax), suppress bone resorption and inhibit bone breakdown in patients with osteoporosis.

Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that mimics the female hormone estrogen. This drug reduces bone resorption and has been shown to greatly increase bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. Important to note that increased risk of venous thromboembolism and death from stroke has been observed with this medication. Therefore, overall benefit vs harm to patients should be assessed.

Denosumab is a monoclonal antibody used to inhibit osteoclast maturation. Preventing the conversion of pre-osteoclasts into osteoclasts reduces bone breakdown in patients with osteoporosis.

Calcitonin is a naturally-occurring hormone in the body that works to decrease bone resorption due to osteoclast activity. Patients who take calcitonin to treat osteoporosis should also take calcium supplements to prevent secondary hyperparathyroidism. This medication is no longer a preferred therapy due to its poor efficacy and association with cancer risks.

This medication is a recombinant form of human parathyroid hormone that increases osteoblast activity in the bone. Unlike other osteoporosis drugs that prevent bone breakdown, teriparatide encourages the formation of new bone. Important to note, this mediation comes with an increased risk of osteosarcoma and is not intended to be used for greater than 2 years in high doses.

Bone density measurements can be useful in diagnosing osteoporosis or in evaluating the effectiveness of a patient’s treatment regimen. A DEXA scan gathers data using x-rays to measure bone density in areas commonly affected by osteoporosis. The results of the scan are reported as both a T-score and a Z-Score. A T-score value represents how far below average the patient’s results are compared to a healthy person at age 30. A normal T-score is considered above -1. A Z-score, however, compares the patient’s data with a person of the same age and ethnicity. A Z-score less than -2.0 may indicate a problem with bone density.

Regular exercise helps keep bones healthy and strong. Weight-bearing activities that the patient enjoys, such as walking, can help prevent further bone loss in patients with osteoporosis.