NURSES’ ROLE
Nurses are in a position to identify cancer survivors
at risk for osteoporosis, recommend screening,
and teach preventive strategies such as diet
and lifestyle modification. In addition, nurses can
encourage physicians to evaluate patients for bone
loss and to discuss pharmacologic options, such
as bisphosphonates.
Nurses need to take an active role in educating
both themselves and their patients. With better
understanding and awareness of bone loss related to
cancer and its treatment, nurses’ ability and commitment
to teach patients will improve.