what does the term essential nutrient refer to

HESI LPN

HESI PN Nutrition Practice Exam

1. 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.

2. How should the nurse manage a child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who is receiving chemotherapy?

A. Avoid all physical activity
B. Ensure strict infection control measures
C. Increase daily caloric intake
D. Limit fluid intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ensure strict infection control measures. Children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who are undergoing chemotherapy have compromised immune systems, making them highly susceptible to infections. Implementing strict infection control measures, such as hand hygiene, limiting exposure to sick individuals, and maintaining a clean environment, is essential to prevent infections. Choice A is incorrect because avoiding all physical activity may not be necessary as long as the child's activity level is appropriate. Choice C is incorrect because increasing daily caloric intake is important to support the child's nutritional needs during treatment. Choice D is incorrect because limiting fluid intake is not typically recommended unless specifically advised by the healthcare provider.

3. How is gastroesophageal reflux (GER) typically treated in infants?

A. Keeping the infant NPO
B. Thickening the formula or breast milk with cereal
C. Placing the infant to sleep on the side
D. Switching the infant to cow's milk

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Thickening the formula or breast milk with cereal is a common treatment for gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in infants. By adding cereal, the feedings become heavier, making it less likely for the stomach contents to reflux. Keeping the infant NPO (nothing by mouth) is not typically necessary for GER treatment and might not be appropriate. Placing the infant to sleep on the side is not recommended due to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Switching the infant to cow's milk is also not a recommended treatment for GER as it can exacerbate symptoms due to its protein content.

4. What is a common symptom of Kawasaki disease?

A. Persistent fever for more than 5 days
B. Excessive vomiting
C. Sudden weight gain
D. Decreased appetite

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Persistent fever lasting more than 5 days is a hallmark symptom of Kawasaki disease, often accompanied by rash and conjunctivitis. Excessive vomiting (choice B), sudden weight gain (choice C), and decreased appetite (choice D) are not typically associated with Kawasaki disease. Therefore, choices B, C, and D can be eliminated as they do not align with the common symptoms of Kawasaki disease.

5. How should a healthcare provider respond to a parent concerned about their child's frequent ear infections?

A. Recommend over-the-counter ear drops
B. Suggest an ENT specialist evaluation
C. Advise on increasing fluid intake
D. Encourage more physical exercise

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a parent expresses concerns about their child's frequent ear infections, suggesting an ENT specialist evaluation is the most appropriate response. This specialist can conduct a thorough examination to identify the underlying cause of the recurrent infections and recommend the most suitable treatment. Recommending over-the-counter ear drops (Choice A) may not address the root cause of the issue and could potentially lead to inappropriate treatment. Advising on increasing fluid intake (Choice C) and encouraging more physical exercise (Choice D) are unrelated to addressing the specific concern of frequent ear infections.