Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) Metabolic/Inflammatory/Tumors Practice Exam

After a fall, what question should the nurse ask a patient who is uncertain about having osteoporosis?

1. "You are so lucky it was your wrist and not your hip."

2. "When is the last time you had a bone mineral density test?"

3. "You should be sure the paths are clear in your garden."

4. "Because you are active outdoors, you are not at risk for osteoporosis."

The correct answer is: "When is the last time you had a bone mineral density test?"

Asking about the last time the patient had a bone mineral density test is critical in assessing their risk for osteoporosis. This test is a key diagnostic tool used to measure bone density and determine the strength of the bones. If a patient is uncertain about having osteoporosis, knowing the last test date can help establish their baseline bone health and highlight the necessity for further assessment or intervention. Inquiring about previous tests not only provides valuable information about the patient's bone status but also helps guide the next steps in management. If too much time has passed since their last test, it may indicate a need for a new evaluation, especially after an incident like a fall, which can exacerbate concerns regarding brittle bones. The other options, while they may touch on related aspects such as injuries or risk factors, do not directly address the patient's uncertainty about their bone health. They might even diminish the seriousness of the concern instead of facilitating a thorough evaluation of the patient's condition. By focusing on prior bone density assessments, the nurse can better understand the patient's risk profile for osteoporosis and plan appropriate care.