A nurse is caring for a child with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). Which nursing intervention is a priority in the care of this client?
A nurse is caring for a child with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). Which nursing intervention is a priority in the care of this client?
A. Implementing measures to prevent falls and fractures.
[86%]
B. Administering calcium supplements to promote bone mineralization.
[9%]
C. Encouraging weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones.
[3%]
D. Applying heat packs to relieve muscle pain and stiffness.
[2%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Child Health
Lesson
Musculoskeletal
Client Need
Test Plan
Physiological Adaptation
Related Topic
Alterations in Body Systems
Item Type
Item Type
Analysis
Explanation
Choice A is correct. OI is characterized by fragile bones prone to fractures. Therefore, the priority in the care of a client with OI is to implement measures to prevent falls and fractures, as these can lead to significant complications and further bone damage.
Choice B is incorrect. Calcium supplementation may be part of the management of OI to support bone health, it is not the priority nursing intervention. OI is primarily a collagen-related disorder rather than a calcium deficiency, and fractures in OI are not solely due to inadequate calcium intake.
Choice C is incorrect. Weight-bearing exercises may be beneficial for bone health in individuals without OI, this may not be recommended for certain individuals with OI due to the risk of fractures. OI is characterized by fragile bones prone to fractures, and weight-bearing exercises may increase the risk of injury and further bone damage in this population.
Choice D is incorrect. Heat packs may provide symptomatic relief for muscle pain and stiffness, they are not the priority nursing intervention in the care of clients with OI. The priority is to prevent falls and fractures.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics

Osteogenesis Imperfecta
31.13 Musculoskeletal Injuries & Disorders
Additional Info
✓ Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic disorder characterized by fragile bones that are prone to fractures, as well as other connective tissue abnormalities. OI is caused by mutations in genes encoding type I collagen, a protein that provides strength and structure to bones and connective tissues. Clinical manifestations of OI may include multiple fractures, blue or gray sclera, dentinogenesis imperfecta (abnormal tooth development), short stature, hearing loss, and joint laxity.
✓ Nursing care for infants with OI focuses on preventing fractures, promoting safe handling and positioning techniques, and providing supportive care to manage pain and discomfort. Strategies to prevent fractures may include using gentle handling techniques, providing supportive padding during diaper changes and handling, and avoiding activities that may place excessive stress on the bones.
✓ OI affects approximately 1 in 10,000 to 20,000 individuals worldwide, making it a relatively rare genetic disorder.