Emergency Care and Osteoporosis Overview

As a registered nurse, what is the first thing Dervid will do at the scene?

What would Dervid suspect if he notices that the old woman's leg is shortened, adducted, and externally rotated?

The old woman complains of pain, and John notices that her knee is reddened, warm to touch, and swollen. What are these signs likely related to?

All of the following factors contribute to osteoporosis except?

What signs and symptoms should the ER nurse carefully monitor Martha for after her injuries?

How should Mr. Rojas hold the cane given his weakness on his right leg?

Emergency Care

Safety is the priority when responding to an accident scene, especially if the patient is in danger (e.g., on a railway track).
Suspect a hip fracture when the injured leg is shortened, adducted, and externally rotated.
Inflammation is the immediate response after trauma; infection occurs later (24-48 hours), thrombophlebitis develops after prolonged immobilization, and degenerative disease manifests differently.

Osteoporosis

Hypothyroidism does not contribute to osteoporosis.
End-stage renal disease (ESRD), Cushing's disease, and medications like furosemide and phenytoin can all contribute to bone demineralization.
Hyperthyroidism and hyperparathyroidism contribute to bone demineralization due to increased parathyroid hormone (PTH), which causes calcium to move from bones to blood, leading to hypercalcemia.
ESRD leads to increased phosphate levels due to poor excretion, and phosphate levels are inversely proportional to calcium levels.

Fracture Complications

Tachycardia and hypotension are important signs to monitor for after a fractured femur or pelvis as they could indicate hemorrhage related to the fracture.

Osteoarthritis

Patients with weakness in one leg due to immobilization should hold the cane on the opposite side of the affected leg. This helps to improve balance and stability.

Test your knowledge on emergency care protocols and the influences on osteoporosis. This quiz covers vital safety measures in accident responses and the medical conditions contributing to bone health. Explore how certain diseases and medications impact bone demineralization and overall patient care.