The nursing assistant is caring for a client with osteoporosis and observes redness and swelling of the right leg. What is the next action the nursing assistant should take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nursing assistant (NA) observes swelling and redness of the leg, which may indicate a possible break in the bone because of the osteoporosis. The NA should have the client remain still until being assessed further by the nurse, which therefore requires the NA to report the observations to the nurse. Walking the client around the unit with the possible damage to the leg could result in a fall as the bone breaks further. Offering a snack rich in calcium may help to slow bone loss but is not the best action taken in the scenario. Using a gentle approach with movement is needed because of the fragile bones, but in this case, the client needs to remain still until assessed further by the nurse.

The Nursing Assistant Is Caring for a Client with Osteoporosis