Nursing Elites

1. Each statement is true of vitamin K, except one. Which is the exception?

• A. Vitamin K is produced in the gut.
• B. Vitamin K functions as a catalyst for the synthesis of blood-clotting factors.
• C. Vitamin K maintains prothrombin levels.
• D. Vitamin K absorption increases with high levels of vitamin E supplementation.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Vitamin K absorption decreases with high levels of vitamin E supplementation because in larger amounts, vitamin E acts as an anticoagulant. Vitamin K is not produced in the gut but can be obtained from food sources or supplements. Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of blood-clotting factors and is crucial in maintaining prothrombin levels, which is vital for proper blood clotting. The incorrect choice, D, is misleading as high levels of vitamin E supplementation hinder vitamin K absorption due to its anticoagulant properties. Dental hygienists should be aware of the importance of vitamin K in blood clotting, especially when treating patients who are on anticoagulant medications for conditions like stroke prevention.

2. A nurse is assessing a client who reports muscle spasms in his calves and tingling in his hands. The client indicates consuming a low intake of milk products and green leafy vegetables. The nurse should identify that the client's findings indicate a deficiency in which of the following sources of nutrition?

• A. Iron
• B. Omega-3 fatty acids
• C. Vitamin C
• D. Calcium

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Calcium. Muscle spasms and tingling suggest a calcium deficiency, which is commonly associated with a low intake of milk products and green leafy vegetables. Iron (choice A) deficiency typically presents with fatigue and weakness, not muscle spasms and tingling. Omega-3 fatty acids (choice B) are essential for brain function and heart health, but their deficiency does not manifest as muscle spasms and tingling. Vitamin C (choice C) deficiency leads to scurvy with symptoms like bleeding gums and bruising, not muscle spasms and tingling.

3. What goal should an overweight woman include in her lifestyle for a healthy pregnancy?

• A. Aim to lose 11 to 20 pounds during pregnancy
• B. Increase protein intake to 35% of total calories
• C. Delay weight loss until after pregnancy
• D. Increase daily energy intake by 550 calories

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The healthiest approach for an overweight pregnant woman is to delay weight loss until after pregnancy. During pregnancy, the body needs sufficient nutrition and energy to support the growth and development of the baby. Attempting to lose weight during pregnancy, especially significant amounts, may compromise the health of both the mother and the baby. Increasing protein intake to 35% of total calories or energy intake by 550 calories per day without professional guidance may lead to an unbalanced diet, which is not optimal for pregnancy. The focus should be on maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet and appropriate weight gain during pregnancy.

4. Located in the middle of the brain, what organ is responsible for satiety and hunger?

• A. Medulla Oblongata
• B. Pituitary Gland
• C. Hypothalamus
• D. Parathyroid

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The hypothalamus, located in the middle of the brain, plays a crucial role in regulating hunger and satiety. It contains specific regions that control appetite and feeding behavior. The Medulla Oblongata (Choice A) is responsible for regulating vital functions like heartbeat and breathing, not hunger. The Pituitary Gland (Choice B) is an endocrine gland that secretes hormones but is not primarily involved in hunger regulation. The Parathyroid (Choice D) is responsible for regulating calcium levels in the body and not related to hunger or satiety.

5. Which foods are the biggest contributors of saturated fats consumed by Americans?

• A. Butter, coconut, and palm oils
• B. Corn oil
• C. Meat and milk
• D. Cheese, pizza, desserts, and chicken

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Cheese, pizza, desserts, and chicken. These foods are significant contributors to the intake of saturated fats in the American diet, often found in processed and fast foods. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while butter, coconut, and palm oils (A) are sources of saturated fats, they are not the biggest contributors in the American diet. Corn oil (B) is a source of unsaturated fats, and meat and milk (C) contain saturated fats but are not the primary contributors compared to cheese, pizza, desserts, and chicken.

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