Nursing Elites

1. _____ neutralizes stomach acid in the small intestine:

• A. saliva
• B. gastric mucus
• C. bicarbonate ions
• D. enzymes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: bicarbonate ions. Bicarbonate ions, secreted by the pancreas, neutralize the acidic chyme entering the small intestine from the stomach, creating a more suitable environment for digestive enzymes. Saliva (choice A) helps in the initial breakdown of food in the mouth, not in neutralizing stomach acid. Gastric mucus (choice B) protects the stomach lining from the acidic environment but does not neutralize the acid in the small intestine. Enzymes (choice D) facilitate chemical reactions in digestion but do not neutralize stomach acid.

2. Where does most nutrient digestion and absorption occur?

• A. Large intestine
• B. Small intestine
• C. Stomach
• D. Mouth

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the correct answer. It is the primary site for nutrient digestion and absorption in the digestive system. The small intestine plays a crucial role in breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into forms that can be absorbed by the body. While the large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes, the majority of nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine. The stomach primarily functions in the initial digestion of proteins, and the mouth begins the mechanical breakdown of food through chewing.

3. A nurse is preparing a teaching plan for a client who has neutropenia as a result of radiation therapy for the treatment of lung cancer. Which of the following should the nurse plan to include in the teaching?

• A. Bottled water is an appropriate choice to increase fluid intake.
• B. The salad bar is a healthy choice when dining out.
• C. Soft-boiled eggs are an appropriate source of protein.
• D. Eating at a buffet is a good choice to increase caloric intake.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In neutropenia, which is a low count of neutrophils, the client is at a high risk of infection. It is crucial to emphasize the importance of proper hydration to maintain overall health. Bottled water is a safe choice as it reduces the risk of exposure to contaminants that could further compromise the client's immune system. The other options, like the salad bar, soft-boiled eggs, and eating at a buffet, may not be suitable for a client with neutropenia due to the risk of bacterial contamination or exposure to pathogens that could lead to infections, which should be avoided.

4. In a patient with liver cirrhosis, weight gain due to fluid retention can mask the symptoms of what condition?

• A. Liver failure
• B. Gallbladder disease
• C. Heart failure
• D. Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a patient with liver cirrhosis, weight gain due to fluid retention can mask Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM) symptoms. This can lead to an increase in weight, making it challenging to identify weight loss or muscle wasting associated with PEM. Therefore, option D is correct. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because fluid retention and weight gain related to liver cirrhosis do not necessarily hide the symptoms of liver failure, gallbladder disease, or heart failure.

5. How do foods or supplements containing significant amounts of plant sterols help lower LDL cholesterol levels?

• A. reducing cholesterol synthesis
• B. suppressing inflammation
• C. reducing blood clotting
• D. interfering with cholesterol and bile absorption

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Plant sterols interfere with cholesterol and bile absorption in the intestines. This interference helps lower LDL cholesterol levels by reducing the amount of cholesterol that enters the bloodstream. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because plant sterols primarily work by interfering with cholesterol and bile absorption, not by reducing cholesterol synthesis, suppressing inflammation, or reducing blood clotting.

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