Question

Complete the diagnostic form on the following:

Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry- Description of procedure, Indications, Interpretation of findings, Potential complications, Nursing interventions (pre, intra,post), client education, Nursing interventions.

Answer 1

Description of procedure:
Dual-energy Xray absorptiometry measures the bone loss inside the body usually lower spine and hips
Indications:
this diagnostic procedure used for osteoporosis diagnosis and identify the risk for osteoporotic fracture.
Interpretation of findings:
DEXA shows the higher or lower bone density for healthy individuals, whether the bone is strong or not. Lower score or weak bone T-score -1.0 is normal bone density, T-score between -1.0 to -2.5 low bone density or osteopenia, below -2.5 osteoporosis.
Complications:
It includes a chance of cancer when exposed to excess radiation.
Nursing interventions: (Pre)
-Provide only clear liquids on the day of examination
-Advise patient not to drink or eat anything after midnight
-advice patient to drink plenty of fluids
-Check the patient whether she is pregnant or having any renal issues
Intra:
-Note the patient IV site or any discoloration and watch for iodinated contrast medium, side-effects like anxiety, itching, sweating, vomiting sensation, etc.
After:
-Do a neurological assessment and check vital signs and assess the patient for any injury or pain.
-make the patient feel comfortable and check the patient hydration level.
-encourage patients to drink a lot of water
Client education:
-Advise patient regarding the procedure to avoid tight clothing, avoid wearing garments, metals, and jewelry
-explain about barium examination and contrast material
-Advice them it is a painless procedure
-Advise them if any abnormalities in the body should inform immediately.
-advise them this procedure complete within 10 to 30 minute
-Advice patient to have every two years of routine evaluation to see the bone material density
-if the patient is on steroid they need 6months routine followup