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. What is an important consideration when caring for a child with epilepsy?

A. Adherence to prescribed anticonvulsant medication
B. Avoiding all forms of exercise
C. Limiting social interactions
D. Increasing dietary caffeine intake

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Adherence to prescribed anticonvulsant medication is crucial when caring for a child with epilepsy. It is essential for managing the condition effectively and reducing the frequency of seizures. Choice B is incorrect because exercise, when done safely and under supervision, can be beneficial for children with epilepsy by promoting overall health. Choice C is incorrect as social interactions are important for the child's emotional well-being and should not be limited. Choice D is incorrect as increasing dietary caffeine intake can potentially trigger seizures in some individuals with epilepsy.

3. If a group of people consumes an amount of protein equal to the estimated average requirement for their population group, what percentage of people will receive insufficient amounts?

A. 10
B. 25
C. 33
D. 50

Correct answer: D

Rationale: If a group consumes an amount of protein equal to the estimated average requirement, 50% of the people will receive insufficient amounts. The estimated average requirement is the amount of a nutrient that is estimated to meet the requirement of half the healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender group. Therefore, 50% of the group will not be meeting their individual needs if they are consuming only the average requirement. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because at the estimated average requirement level, a higher percentage than those values will receive insufficient amounts.

4. What does a positive correlation between two variables indicate?

A. One variable causes the other.
B. Both variables move in the same direction.
C. Both variables move in opposite directions.
D. There is no relationship between the variables.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A positive correlation between two variables indicates that they move in the same direction. This means that as one variable increases (or decreases), the other variable also increases (or decreases). Choice A is incorrect because correlation does not imply causation; it only shows a relationship between variables. Choice C is incorrect as it describes a negative correlation where variables move in opposite directions. Choice D is incorrect as a positive correlation implies a relationship between the variables.

5. What is the primary role of dietary guidelines?

A. To ensure that all food groups are consumed in appropriate proportions.
B. To prevent chronic diseases and promote overall well-being.
C. To help individuals meet their nutritional needs while reducing the risk of chronic disease.
D. To offer specific recommendations for the intake of nutrients that support health.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To help individuals meet their nutritional needs while reducing the risk of chronic disease.' Dietary guidelines are designed to provide guidance on the types and amounts of food that support good health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Choice A has been corrected to mention 'appropriate proportions' instead of 'equal amounts,' as dietary guidelines emphasize balance and variety. Choice B is partially correct, but the primary focus of dietary guidelines is on meeting nutritional needs. Choice D is incorrect because while dietary guidelines may include nutrient recommendations, their primary focus is on overall dietary patterns rather than specific nutrient intake.