Nursing Elites

1. Diseases of the heart and blood vessels are collectively referred to as _____.

• A. Coronary artery disease
• B. Cardiovascular disease
• C. Coronary heart disease
• D. Coronary vessel disease

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct term for diseases of the heart and blood vessels is cardiovascular disease. While coronary artery disease (Choice A) specifically involves the narrowing of coronary arteries, it is just one type of cardiovascular disease. Coronary heart disease (Choice C) is also a specific condition related to the heart's blood vessels. Choice D, coronary vessel disease, is not a commonly used term to describe diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Therefore, Choice B, cardiovascular disease, is the most inclusive and appropriate term to refer to these conditions.

2. Sugar alcohols have anticariogenic properties and can protect the teeth by decreasing demineralization, enhancing remineralization, or increasing salivary flow, even in the presence of a fermentable carbohydrate. Name 3 sugar alcohols.

• A. Sorbitol
• B. Mannitol
• C. Xylitol
• D. Erythritol

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol are commonly used in sugar-free products and have properties that help protect teeth from caries by promoting remineralization and increasing salivary flow. Erythritol is another common sugar alcohol used as a sweetener in various products, but it was not listed in the question.

3. Each statement is true regarding oral exposure to fermentable carbohydrates, except one. Which is the exception?

• A. Longer exposure leads to an increased risk of demineralization
• B. Longer exposure increases the opportunity for remineralization
• C. The Stephan curve illustrates pH changes within plaque after rinsing with a sugar solution
• D. The critical pH at which enamel decalcification occurs is 5.5 or less

Correct answer: B

Rationale: All the statements above are accurate about oral exposure to fermentable carbohydrates, except for option B. In fact, longer exposure to these carbohydrates decreases the opportunity for remineralization. This is because the process of demineralization, in which minerals are lost from the tooth enamel, is sped up by the presence of fermentable carbohydrates. The Stephan curve (option C) is a graph that demonstrates how the pH of dental plaque changes after a sugar rinse, usually dropping (becoming more acidic), which can lead to enamel decalcification. Option D is also accurate, as a pH of 5.5 or lower is the critical point at which enamel starts to decalcify.

4. What is the most significant dietary influence on the development of dental caries?

• A. Carbohydrates
• B. Vitamins
• C. Minerals
• D. Fats

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Carbohydrates. Carbohydrates, especially fermentable sugars, are the most significant dietary factor in the development of dental caries. When these sugars are consumed, they can be fermented by bacteria in the mouth, leading to the production of acids. These acids lower the pH in the mouth, creating an acidic environment that promotes demineralization of the tooth enamel, ultimately causing dental caries. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while vitamins and minerals are important for overall health, they do not have the same direct impact on the development of dental caries as fermentable carbohydrates do. Fats, on the other hand, do not play a significant role in the development of dental caries.

5. A nurse is discussing denture care with the partner of a client who is unable to perform oral hygiene. Which of the following should be included in the discussion?

• A. Floss dentures as part of daily cleaning.
• B. Wipe dentures before storing them in a dry container at night.
• C. Wrap gloved fingers with gauze to remove dentures.
• D. Use a washcloth to clean the denture surfaces.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Wrap gloved fingers with gauze to remove dentures.' This method provides a safe and effective way to remove dentures without causing damage. Choice A is incorrect because flossing dentures is not recommended. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests wiping dentures and storing them dry, which is not the best practice. Choice D is incorrect because using a washcloth may not effectively clean all denture surfaces.

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