Nursing Elites

1. The principal cation in plasma and interstitial fluid is:

• A. Sodium
• B. Potassium
• C. Calcium
• D. Magnesium

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The principal cation in plasma and interstitial fluid is sodium. Sodium plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and is the primary cation in extracellular fluids like plasma and interstitial fluid. Potassium is the primary cation within cells, not in extracellular fluids, making it an incorrect choice. Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals but are not the principal cations in plasma and interstitial fluid, so they are also incorrect choices.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. A nurse is teaching a client about preparing low-fat meals. The nurse should include that which of the following oils contains saturated fat?

• A. Corn
• B. Olive
• C. Canola
• D. Coconut

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Coconut oil contains a high amount of saturated fat, which can increase LDL cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease. Olive, corn, and canola oils are primarily unsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats. Olive oil, in particular, is rich in monounsaturated fats, while corn and canola oils are good sources of polyunsaturated fats. Therefore, the correct answer is Coconut because it contains saturated fat, unlike the other options.

5. A patient on a low-sodium diet should avoid which of the following foods?

• A. Fresh fruits
• B. Unsalted nuts
• C. Canned soup
• D. Plain rice

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Canned soup is the correct answer. Canned soups are often high in sodium due to added salt and should be avoided on a low-sodium diet. Fresh fruits (Choice A) are typically low in sodium and a good choice for a low-sodium diet. Unsalted nuts (Choice B) are also low in sodium and can be included in a low-sodium diet. Plain rice (Choice D) is a low-sodium food and can be part of a low-sodium diet.

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