From the Guidelines
Successful patient education about osteopenia and osteoporosis prevention is indicated when patients make statements that reflect an understanding of lifestyle modifications and treatment strategies to maintain bone health, such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and engaging in weight-bearing exercises. The statements that support the assumption that patient education about osteopenia and osteoporosis prevention has been successful are:
- b. “I have been involved in a smoking cessation program for the past 4 months.” This statement indicates that the patient is taking steps to address a modifiable risk factor for osteoporosis, as smoking cessation is a key component of osteoporosis prevention 1.
- c. “We have joined a Tai Chi class that meets three times a week in the park.” This statement suggests that the patient is engaging in a form of exercise that can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falls, which is an important aspect of osteoporosis prevention 1.
- d. “I did not think I would like the weight training program, but I am really feeling stronger.” This statement indicates that the patient is participating in a form of exercise that can help improve bone density, which is a key component of osteoporosis prevention 1.
- e. “I have cut my alcohol use to only two glasses of wine a week.” This statement suggests that the patient is taking steps to limit their alcohol consumption, which is a modifiable risk factor for osteoporosis 1. These statements demonstrate that the patient has internalized key prevention concepts and is taking steps to maintain bone health, which is essential for reducing the risk of fracture and improving quality of life 1.
From the Research
Statements Indicating Successful Patient Education
The following statements made by a patient diagnosed with osteopenia would tend to support the assumption that patient education about the condition and prevention of osteoporosis has been successful:
- b. “I have been involved in a smoking cessation program for the past 4 months.” This statement indicates that the patient is taking steps to quit smoking, which is a risk factor for osteoporosis 2, 3.
- c. “We have joined a Tai Chi class that meets three times a week in the park.” This statement suggests that the patient is engaging in physical activity, such as balance exercises, which can help prevent falls and improve bone density 4.
- d. “I did not think I would like the weight training program, but I am really feeling stronger.” This statement indicates that the patient is participating in resistance training, which can help improve bone strength and reduce the risk of osteoporosis 4.
- e. “I have cut my alcohol use to only two glasses of wine a week.” This statement suggests that the patient is reducing their alcohol consumption, which is a risk factor for osteoporosis.
Key Factors in Osteoporosis Prevention
Key factors in osteoporosis prevention include: