What important information should a nurse include when teaching a patient about hormone therapy with conjugated equine estrogen?

Including the statement that estrogen decreases the risk for osteoporosis is crucial when teaching a patient about hormone therapy with conjugated equine estrogen. Estrogen plays a significant role in the maintenance of bone density. Post-menopausal women are particularly susceptible to osteoporosis due to the decline in estrogen levels, which contributes to bone resorption surpassing bone formation. Hormone therapy, including conjugated equine estrogen, can help in maintaining bone mass and reducing the risk of fractures, thereby serving as a preventative measure against osteoporosis.

The other options do not provide accurate or beneficial information pertinent to hormone therapy. Statements about significant weight gain or the assumption that estrogen therapy guarantees no side effects can mislead patients about the nature of hormone therapy. Hormone therapy can be associated with weight changes and a variety of side effects, which vary from person to person. Lastly, while dietary considerations can play a role in managing health, suggesting that estrogen use should be combined strictly with dietary restrictions does not adequately address the role of hormone therapy in bone health or overall patient management.