A 78-year-old inactive client diagnosed with acute renal failure is at

A 78-year-old inactive client diagnosed with acute renal failure is at risk for which of the fol-lowing skeletal maladies?

1. Rickets
2. Osteomyelitis
3. Pathological fractures of long bones
4. Compression fractures of the spinal column

ANSWER

ANS: 3
Immobility causes the release of calcium into the circulation, where normally the kidneys excrete the excess calcium. If the kidneys are unable to respond appropriately, hypercalcemia results. Pathological fractures occur if calcium reabsorption continues as the client remains on bed rest or continues to be immobile. Bed rest is not a direct causative factor for the other options.