What is the primary purpose of osteoporosis screening in this client?

• A. To monitor healing of fracture
• B. To diagnose infection
• C. To assess bone mineral density and fracture risk
• D. To evaluate kidney function

Answer: (C)

Screening for osteoporosis aims to identify low bone density and estimate the risk of future fracture, so prevention and treatment can be started before fractures occur. A DXA scan measures bone mineral density at key sites like the hip and spine and provides a T-score that helps determine whether someone has osteoporosis or osteopenia and guides management. This approach focuses on assessing density and fracture risk, rather than monitoring fracture healing, diagnosing infection, or evaluating kidney function, which rely on different tests and purposes. In this client, the main goal of screening is to determine bone density and fracture risk to guide preventive therapy.