Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary function of protein in the body?

• A. Provide energy.
• B. Regulate metabolic processes.
• C. Control muscle contractions.
• D. Build tissue.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The primary function of protein in the body is to build and repair tissues. Proteins are crucial for growth, maintenance, and repair of body tissues, including muscles, organs, and skin. While proteins can be a source of energy, their primary role is not to supply energy. Regulating metabolic processes and controlling muscle contractions are functions typically attributed to other nutrients and compounds in the body, such as vitamins and minerals.

2. The type of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) that develops when the diet lacks protein is called:

• A. kwashiorkor.
• B. marasmus.
• C. anemia.
• D. beriberi.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: kwashiorkor. Kwashiorkor is a form of protein-energy malnutrition that arises due to a protein-deficient diet. This condition leads to symptoms such as edema, skin lesions, and fatty liver. Choice B, marasmus, is a form of PEM caused by overall malnutrition (protein and calorie deficiency), resulting in severe wasting and muscle loss. Choice C, anemia, is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, not specifically related to protein deficiency. Choice D, beriberi, is a disease caused by thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency, not a form of PEM related to protein deficiency.

3. With respect to its effect on colon microflora, fiber is considered a:

• A. prebiotic.
• B. probiotic.
• C. functional food.
• D. protective agent.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: prebiotic. Fiber acts as a prebiotic by providing a food source for beneficial bacteria in the colon, promoting their growth and activity. This helps maintain a healthy balance of microflora in the gut. Choice B, probiotic, is incorrect as fiber itself does not contain live beneficial bacteria but rather supports their growth. Choice C, functional food, is too broad and doesn't specifically address fiber's role in promoting beneficial bacteria. Choice D, protective agent, is vague and does not directly relate to fiber's specific function in colon microflora.

4. Which observation provides evidence that a person has good nutritional status?

• A. Small muscle mass.
• B. Normal weight-to-height ratio.
• C. Smooth tongue.
• D. Fragile skin.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A normal weight-to-height ratio is a reliable indicator of good nutritional status as it suggests that the person is well-nourished and not underweight or overweight. Small muscle mass (choice A) can indicate malnutrition, a smooth tongue (choice C) can be a sign of vitamin deficiencies, and fragile skin (choice D) can be a sign of poor nutrition or other health issues, but they are not as direct indicators of good nutritional status as a normal weight-to-height ratio.

5. Which mineral helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent dental caries?

• A. Calcium
• B. Phosphorus
• C. Fluoride
• D. Zinc

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral known for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent dental caries. While calcium (Choice A) is essential for strong bones and teeth, it is not specifically known for preventing dental caries. Phosphorus (Choice B) is crucial for bone health but is not directly associated with preventing dental caries. Zinc (Choice D) is not typically recognized for strengthening tooth enamel or preventing dental caries.

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