Change that can occur in the musculoskeletal system due to immobility is?

DSSSB Public Health Nurse - 2015

Applied Physiology

Easy

Appeared in: DSSSB Public Health Nurse - 2015

Explanation

Immobility reduces the mechanical stress and strain of weight-bearing activity on the skeletal system.
This lack of stress stimulates bone resorption (breakdown) and slows down bone formation.
As a result, there is a net loss of bone calcium, which is released into the bloodstream. This entire process is described as a change in calcium metabolism.
This change leads to disuse osteoporosis, making bones brittle and susceptible to fractures, and can also cause hypercalcemia (high blood calcium).

Option A: This option is a list of muscle properties, not a description of a change. While immobility does cause a decrease in muscle endurance, strength, and mass (a process called disuse atrophy), the option as stated is incomplete and grammatically awkward.
Option C: Alterations in fluid and electrolytes are systemic effects of immobility, not a primary change within the musculoskeletal system. These imbalances are often secondary to other changes, such as decreased kidney function, altered metabolism, or decreased fluid intake.
Option D: This option is incorrect because there is a valid change listed among the options that occurs in the musculoskeletal system due to immobility.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Effects of immobility on the musculoskeletal system as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must be vigilant in preventing the complications of immobility. This includes implementing early mobilization protocols, performing active or passive range-of-motion exercises, and ensuring proper positioning to prevent contractures.
Monitoring for signs of hypercalcemia (e.g., nausea, vomiting, confusion, cardiac arrhythmias) and implementing safety precautions to prevent falls and pathological fractures are critical nursing responsibilities for immobile patients.
What if? If a patient is on complete bed rest but can perform isometric exercises (tensing muscles without moving joints), this can help reduce the rate of muscle atrophy, but it will not prevent the bone demineralization caused by the lack of weight-bearing.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key concepts in the question: 'change,' 'musculoskeletal system,' and 'immobility.'
Evaluate each option to determine if it represents a direct change within the musculoskeletal system caused by immobility.
Option A lists muscle properties but doesn't describe the change (decrease). This makes it a less precise answer.
Option C describes a systemic change, not one confined to the musculoskeletal system.
Option B describes a specific, well-documented process (altered calcium metabolism) that occurs in the bones due to immobility.
Compare the valid options. Option B is a more accurately phrased and fundamental physiological change than the incomplete statement in Option A, making it the best answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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