This course has been approved for 6 clock hours by the Commission on Case Manager Certification from January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008 and February 12, 2009 through December 31, 2009.

The purpose of this program is to inform nurses about how to treat and prevent osteoporosis.

After you study the information presented here, you will be able to:

1. Explain the economic impact and personal consequences of osteoporosis.
2. Describe the pathogenesis of bone loss and identify methods to diagnose osteoporosis.
3. Compare and contrast unchangeable and modifiable risk factors for osteoporosis.
4. Describe the role of calcium nutrition, vitamin D, and exercise in osteoporosis prevention and management.
5. Describe the role of pharmacologic agents in osteoporosis therapy.
6. Identify individuals at highest risk for falls and describe fall prevention strategies that nurses can teach.
7. Explain principles of rehabilitation as they are used in reducing disability for people with osteoporosis.
8. Describe significant nursing roles in osteoporosis prevention and management.