a health magazine contacts you for your expert opinion on what measure best describes the amounts of nutrients that should be consumed by the populati

HESI LPN

LPN Nutrition Practice Test

1. Which measure best describes the amounts of nutrients that should be consumed by the population?

A. The Dietary Reference Intakes, as they provide a set of nutrient intake values for healthy people in the United States and Canada
B. The Tolerable Upper Intake levels, as they indicate the maximum daily amount of a nutrient considered safe for most healthy people
C. The Estimated Average Requirements, as they reflect the average daily amount of a nutrient needed to maintain a specific function in half of the healthy individuals of a population
D. The Recommended Dietary Allowances, as they represent the average daily amount of a nutrient considered adequate to meet the known nutrient needs of practically all healthy individuals

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) are the best measure to describe the amounts of nutrients that should be consumed by the population. RDAs represent the average daily intake level that meets the nutrient requirements of nearly all (97-98%) healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender group. Choice A, the Dietary Reference Intakes, provide a set of nutrient intake values but do not specifically address the average daily amount of a nutrient considered adequate for practically all individuals. Choice B, the Tolerable Upper Intake levels, focus on the maximum daily amount of a nutrient deemed safe for most healthy people, not the average daily amount needed. Choice C, the Estimated Average Requirements, reflect the average daily amount of a nutrient needed by half of the healthy individuals, which is not as comprehensive as the RDAs that cater to nearly all healthy people.

2. By chemical analysis, what nutrient is present in the highest amounts in most foods?

A. fats
B. water
C. proteins
D. carbohydrates

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Water is the most abundant nutrient in many foods. Water content varies across different foods, but in general, it is present in the highest amounts. Fats (Choice A) are essential but are not found in higher amounts compared to water. Proteins (Choice C) and carbohydrates (Choice D) are also important nutrients, but they are typically found in lower quantities in most foods compared to water.

3. How many minerals are known to be essential for human nutrition?

A. 8
B. 12
C. 16
D. 20

Correct answer: C

Rationale: There are 16 essential minerals required for human nutrition. These minerals include calcium, potassium, iron, and others. Choice A (8) is incorrect as it underestimates the number of essential minerals. Choice B (12) is also incorrect as it does not encompass the full count of essential minerals. Choice D (20) is incorrect as it overestimates the number of essential minerals.

4. What is a key dietary consideration for a child with phenylketonuria (PKU)?

A. High-fiber diet
B. Low-phenylalanine diet
C. Increased dairy intake
D. High-sodium diet

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A low-phenylalanine diet is crucial for managing PKU to prevent neurological damage and maintain normal development. Phenylalanine is an amino acid found in protein-containing foods, and individuals with PKU have difficulty metabolizing it. Consuming foods low in phenylalanine helps prevent the buildup of toxic byproducts in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. A high-fiber diet, increased dairy intake, and high-sodium diet are not specific dietary considerations for PKU management. In fact, dairy products are a source of protein and phenylalanine, which should be limited in PKU.

5. What is the primary goal in managing a child with chronic asthma?

A. Achieve and maintain symptom control
B. Avoid all physical activity
C. Increase dietary sodium
D. Restrict medication use

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary goal in managing a child with chronic asthma is to achieve and maintain symptom control. This helps improve the child's quality of life by reducing asthma symptoms and exacerbations. Choice B is incorrect because avoiding all physical activity is not recommended for children with asthma; in fact, regular physical activity can be beneficial. Choice C is incorrect as increasing dietary sodium is not a primary goal in managing asthma. Choice D is incorrect because restricting medication use can lead to uncontrolled asthma symptoms and complications.