An older client with a history of hyperparathyroidism and severe osteoporosis is hospitalized. The nurse should address which problem first?

An older client with a history of hyperparathyroidism and severe osteoporosis is hospitalized. The nurse should address which problem first?

• A. Constipation
• B. Urinary retention
• C. The possibility of injury
• D. Need for teaching about the disorder

Answer: (C)

Preventing injury is the top priority here. In an older patient with hyperparathyroidism and severe osteoporosis, bones are highly fragile from ongoing bone resorption, so the risk of a fracture or serious injury during routine hospital activities (repositioning, transfers, walking, or even handling) is high. The immediate nursing focus should be to minimize fall and fracture risk with strict safety measures: keep the bed in the lowest position, use appropriate side rails, keep the call light within reach, remove hazards from the room, ensure non-slip footwear, provide assistance with any movement, and have any assistive devices ready. Once safety and injury prevention are established, other concerns like constipation or urinary retention and teaching about the disorder can be addressed, but they are not the immediate threats to the patient’s well-being in the hospital setting.

Preventing injury is the top priority here. In an older patient with hyperparathyroidism and severe osteoporosis, bones are highly fragile from ongoing bone resorption, so the risk of a fracture or serious injury during routine hospital activities (repositioning, transfers, walking, or even handling) is high. The immediate nursing focus should be to minimize fall and fracture risk with strict safety measures: keep the bed in the lowest position, use appropriate side rails, keep the call light within reach, remove hazards from the room, ensure non-slip footwear, provide assistance with any movement, and have any assistive devices ready.

Once safety and injury prevention are established, other concerns like constipation or urinary retention and teaching about the disorder can be addressed, but they are not the immediate threats to the patient’s well-being in the hospital setting.