Question

a nurse is caring for a client who is taking alendronate to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis. the nurse should explain to the client that alendronate increases bone mass by which of the following actions?

• promotes intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus
• increases calcium excretion
• decreases activity of osteoclasts
• reduces action of osteoblasts

Explanation:

Alendronate is a bisphosphonate used for osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates work by decreasing the activity of osteoclasts (cells that break down bone), which helps increase bone mass. Promoting intestinal absorption of Ca/P is more like vitamin D's role. Increasing Ca excretion would decrease bone mass. Reducing osteoblast (bone - building cells) action would also not help increase bone mass.

Answer:

C. Decreases activity of osteoclasts