District nurses' perceptions of osteoporosis management: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Practice
• Osteoporosis Research

Background:

• Osteoporosis undertreatment is prevalent, exacerbated by low prioritization within Sweden's healthcare strategy.
• Existing guidelines do not prioritize osteoporosis, contributing to its neglect in primary care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate district nurses' perceptions of osteoporosis management in Sweden.
• To understand the factors influencing osteoporosis care from the perspective of primary healthcare nurses.

Main Methods:

• Four semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted.
• Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the qualitative data from 13 district nurses.

Main Results:

• A central theme identified was the ambiguity surrounding osteoporosis management.
• Barriers included insufficient procedures, time constraints, lack of awareness, and concerns about bone-specific medications.
• Opportunities involved perceived competency in fall prevention, willingness to learn, and potential for collaboration.

Conclusions:

• District nurses view osteoporosis as a low-priority condition, contributing to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.
• Competency in fall prevention during home visits presents an opportunity to integrate fracture risk assessment (e.g., FRAX) and improve care.