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 a common sign of iron-deficiency anemia in children?

A. Yellowing of the skin
B. Pallor and fatigue
C. Rapid weight gain
D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pallor and fatigue are common signs of iron-deficiency anemia in children. Iron-deficiency anemia is characterized by a decreased production of red blood cells, leading to a paler appearance (pallor) and increased fatigue due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity. Yellowing of the skin (choice A) is more commonly associated with liver or bile duct issues. Rapid weight gain (choice C) and increased appetite (choice D) are not typical signs of iron-deficiency anemia.

3. What is a primary goal in managing a child with asthma?

A. Avoiding all physical activities
B. Achieving and maintaining control of asthma symptoms
C. Increasing daily sugar intake
D. Restricting all forms of medication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal in managing a child with asthma is to achieve and maintain control of asthma symptoms to ensure the child's well-being and quality of life. This involves using appropriate medications as prescribed, identifying and avoiding triggers, and developing an asthma action plan. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because avoiding all physical activities can lead to deconditioning and is not recommended, increasing daily sugar intake is unrelated to managing asthma, and restricting all forms of medication can be harmful as medications are often necessary to control asthma symptoms.

4. What is an important consideration when administering medications to a child with a history of chronic renal failure?

A. Increased frequency of medication administration
B. Adjustments in dosage due to altered drug metabolism
C. Avoidance of all medications
D. Use of only intravenous medications

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When administering medications to a child with chronic renal failure, it is crucial to consider adjustments in dosage due to altered drug metabolism. Children with chronic renal failure may have impaired drug excretion, leading to potential drug accumulation and toxicity. Increasing the frequency of medication administration (choice A) may not address the altered drug metabolism issue and could increase the risk of adverse effects. Avoiding all medications (choice C) is not practical or safe as some medications may be necessary for the child's health. Using only intravenous medications (choice D) is not always required and may not be the best route of administration for all medications needed.

5. How should one manage a child with an allergy to multiple food items?

A. Avoid all identified allergens
B. Increase dietary exposure to allergens
C. Administer daily antihistamines
D. Restrict all food intake

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When managing a child with an allergy to multiple food items, the most appropriate approach is to avoid all identified allergens. This is crucial to prevent allergic reactions and ensure the child's safety. Choice B, increasing dietary exposure to allergens, is incorrect as it can lead to severe allergic reactions. Choice C, administering daily antihistamines, may help manage symptoms but does not address the root cause, which is avoiding allergens. Choice D, restricting all food intake, is not a viable option as it can lead to malnutrition and other health issues.