how many minerals are known to be essential for human nutrition

HESI LPN

HESI PN Nutrition Practice Exam

1. 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.

2. Which statement best describes the composition of most foods?

A. Most foods contain a mixture of the three energy nutrients, with one or two predominating.
B. Foods do not typically contain equal amounts of the three energy nutrients.
C. Most foods contain mixtures of the three energy nutrients, although only one or two may predominate.
D. Most foods contain all three energy nutrients in varying amounts.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Most foods contain a mixture of the three energy nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats), with one or two predominating. Choice A is correct because most foods do contain a combination of energy nutrients, with one or two types usually being predominant. Choice B is incorrect as foods typically do not contain equal amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Choice D is incorrect because most foods contain all three energy nutrients, not just one or two types.

3. The motive for a person who alters their diet due to religious convictions is most likely related to their ___.

A. values
B. body image
C. ethnic heritage
D. functional association

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'values.' When individuals alter their diet due to religious convictions, it is primarily driven by their personal or cultural values associated with their faith. This choice reflects the strong influence that religious beliefs can have on dietary choices. Choice B, 'body image,' is incorrect because altering one's diet for religious reasons is more about spiritual beliefs than physical appearance. Choice C, 'ethnic heritage,' is incorrect as it pertains more to cultural background rather than religious convictions. Choice D, 'functional association,' is incorrect as it does not directly relate to the motivation behind altering one's diet for religious reasons.

4. What does the term 'essential nutrient' refer to?

A. A nutrient that can be synthesized by the body.
B. A nutrient that is required for proper body functioning.
C. A nutrient that must be obtained from the diet because the body cannot produce it.
D. A nutrient that can be stored in the body for long periods.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. An essential nutrient is a substance that is necessary for normal body functioning but cannot be synthesized in adequate amounts by the body, therefore it must be obtained from the diet. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because essential nutrients are not synthesized by the body, they are necessary for body functioning, and they are not typically stored in the body for long periods.

5. How should a caregiver handle a child with a known peanut allergy?

A. Educate on allergen avoidance
B. Increase exposure to peanuts
C. Administer antihistamines as needed
D. Suggest occasional consumption of peanuts

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Educating on allergen avoidance is the correct approach when dealing with a child who has a known peanut allergy. This helps in managing the allergy effectively and preventing potential allergic reactions. Increasing exposure to peanuts (Choice B) is dangerous and can trigger severe allergic reactions in a child with a peanut allergy. While antihistamines (Choice C) can help alleviate some symptoms, they should not be the primary method of managing a peanut allergy. Suggesting occasional consumption of peanuts (Choice D) is extremely risky and should never be done for a child with a known peanut allergy.