the first step in the scientific method is to

ATI RN

ATI Nutrition Practice A

1. What is the first step in the scientific method?

A. Conduct an experiment
B. Make an observation and ask a question
C. Formulate a hypothesis
D. Reach a consensus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The first step in the scientific method is to make an observation and ask a question. This is because the scientific method is a systematic process of investigation that begins with observing a phenomenon or asking a question about it. This is followed by formulating a hypothesis (Choice C), designing and conducting an experiment to test the hypothesis (Choice A), and analyzing the results to reach a consensus or conclusion (Choice D). Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they represent steps that occur after the initial observation and question.

2. In persons who are obese, weight reduction can improve such CHD risk factors as hypertension, blood lipid abnormalities, and?

A. inflammation
B. insulin resistance
C. gastrointestinal motility disorders
D. damage from cigarette smoking

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Weight reduction in obese individuals can improve insulin resistance, a key factor in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

3. Which of the following foods is the best source of omega-3 fatty acids?

A. Salmon
B. Chicken
C. Spinach
D. Eggs

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Salmon is the correct answer as it is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, which are known to be beneficial for heart health. Chicken, spinach, and eggs do not contain significant levels of omega-3 fatty acids compared to salmon. While eggs do contain some omega-3s, the amount is considerably lower than what is found in fatty fish like salmon.

4. Vitamin deficiencies, especially the B-complex vitamins, seldom occur in isolation. Folate, a B-complex vitamin, is the exception because it functions separately from other vitamins.

A. Both statements are true.
B. Both statements are false.
C. The first statement is true; the second is false.
D. The first statement is false; the second is true.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The first statement is true; the second is false. If a deficiency of one vitamin is suspected, symptoms of other vitamin B deficiencies also may be present. Folate deficiencies usually occur with other nutrient deficiencies. Specifically, folate functions in conjunction with vitamins B12 and C in maintaining normal levels of mature red blood cells.

5. A nurse is initiating continuous enteral feedings for a client who has a new gastrostomy tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Measure the client’s gastric residual every 12 hours.
B. Obtain the client’s electrolyte levels every 4 hours.
C. Keep the client’s head elevated at 15° during feedings.
D. Flush the client’s tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hours.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Flushing the client’s tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hours is essential to maintain tube patency and prevent blockages. This action helps ensure the continuous flow of enteral feedings without obstruction. Measuring the client’s gastric residual every 12 hours (Choice A) is important but not the priority when initiating enteral feedings. Obtaining the client’s electrolyte levels every 4 hours (Choice B) is unnecessary and not directly related to tube feeding initiation. Keeping the client’s head elevated at 15° during feedings (Choice C) is a good practice to prevent aspiration, but tube flushing is more crucial to prevent tube occlusion.