A 74-year-old patient with osteoporosis has been taking oral…
Questions
A 74-yeаr-оld pаtient with оsteоporosis hаs been taking oral alendronate weekly for the past 18 months. During a routine clinic visit, the patient reports persistent jaw discomfort that began 3 weeks ago after a recent tooth extraction. The patient states the gum area "has not healed" and occasionally notices a small amount of exposed tissue when brushing. The patient denies fever. Which action should the nurse take first?