A nurse is teaching a client who is scheduled for dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to screen for osteoporosis. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
A. “You will need to fast for 12 hours before the test.”
B. “You will need to lie flat for 4 hours following the test.”
C. “You will need to remove all jewelry before the test.”
D. “You will need to empty your bladder before the test.”
Correc
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. “You will need to remove all jewelry before the test.”
Explanation:
Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is a non-invasive imaging test primarily used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) and assess the risk of osteoporosis. It is critical to provide the patient with accurate pre-test instructions to ensure the validity of the results and the comfort of the patient.
Option A: “You will need to fast for 12 hours before the test.”
This is incorrect. Fasting is not required before a DXA scan. The test does not involve any dietary restrictions as it is primarily focused on bone density measurements.
Option B: “You will need to lie flat for 4 hours following the test.”
This statement is also incorrect. Patients are typically allowed to resume normal activities immediately after a DXA scan. There is no requirement to lie flat or rest for an extended period post-examination.
Option C: “You will need to remove all jewelry before the test.”
This is the correct answer. Metal objects, including jewelry, can interfere with the accuracy of the x-ray readings. To avoid artifacts that may affect the results, patients are instructed to remove any jewelry or metal accessories prior to the scan. This is an important step in ensuring that the DXA results are reliable.
Option D: “You will need to empty your bladder before the test.”
While it is generally good practice for patients to use the restroom before undergoing any imaging procedure, it is not a specific requirement for a DXA scan. Therefore, while it may be beneficial, it is not a standardized instruction.
In summary, the primary teaching point for a patient scheduled for a DXA scan is to ensure they remove all jewelry to avoid interference with the test results, thus promoting accurate assessment of bone density.