Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) Metabolic/Inflammatory/Tumors Practice Exam

Bone metastases can significantly impact a patient's overall health and treatment plan due to their effects on bone integrity and function. When cancer spreads to the bones, it can lead to complications such as pain, fractures, and hypercalcemia, which necessitate a careful consideration of how cancer therapies are administered.

Adjusting cancer therapies to account for bone health is crucial because certain treatments, such as bisphosphonates or denosumab, are specifically designed to strengthen bones and prevent complications caused by metastases. Additionally, systemic therapies may need to be tailored to mitigate the side effects on bone density and overall skeletal health. This is particularly essential in a clinical setting, as maintaining bone health can greatly improve a patient's quality of life and treatment outcomes.

The other options, while they may be relevant in broader contexts, do not specifically address the unique challenges presented by bone metastases. Increased susceptibility to infections and decreased mental clarity can be general concerns in cancer patients but are not directly tied to the complications from bone metastases in the same way that therapy adjustments are. Rapid weight gain may occur for various reasons but does not relate directly to the management of bone metastases. Thus, the focus on adjusting cancer therapies for bone health highlights the need for specialized care in managing bone