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. Parents of a 6-month-old child, diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, ask why it was not diagnosed earlier. What should the nurse say?

A. Are you sure your child has iron deficiency anemia?
B. Maternal stores of iron are depleted at about 6 months.
C. This anemia is caused by blood loss.
D. The child may not have had it for a long time.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Maternal stores of iron are depleted at about 6 months.' Iron deficiency anemia becomes apparent around 6 months of age when the infant's iron stores, primarily received from the mother during pregnancy, are depleted. This timing coincides with the introduction of solid foods, which may lack sufficient iron. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the specific reason why iron deficiency anemia is typically diagnosed around 6 months of age.

3. How should a caregiver manage a child with a newly diagnosed hearing impairment?

A. Increase the volume of all auditory stimuli
B. Refer for audiologic evaluation and intervention
C. Avoid using any assistive devices
D. Encourage frequent use of headphones

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a child is newly diagnosed with a hearing impairment, it is essential to refer them for audiologic evaluation and intervention. This step is crucial to accurately assess the extent of the impairment, determine appropriate interventions, and support the child's communication and development. Increasing the volume of all auditory stimuli (choice A) is not a recommended approach as it may not address the specific needs of the child and could potentially cause discomfort. Avoiding the use of assistive devices (choice C) can hinder the child's ability to communicate effectively. Encouraging frequent use of headphones (choice D) is also not advisable as it may not be suitable for managing hearing impairments and could potentially worsen the condition.

4. What is the primary goal in managing a child with cystic fibrosis?

A. Increase dietary fat intake
B. Prevent lung infections
C. Increase physical activity
D. Ensure high protein intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal in managing a child with cystic fibrosis is to prevent lung infections. Cystic fibrosis primarily affects the respiratory system, leading to thick mucus buildup in the lungs, which increases the risk of infections. Preventing lung infections through proper respiratory care, medications, airway clearance techniques, and vaccinations is crucial in managing cystic fibrosis. While dietary interventions like increasing dietary fat intake, ensuring high protein intake, and promoting physical activity are also important aspects of cystic fibrosis management, preventing lung infections takes precedence as it directly addresses a major complication of the condition.

5. How should a healthcare provider manage a child with newly diagnosed congenital hypothyroidism?

A. Monitor for signs of hyperactivity
B. Ensure regular thyroid hormone replacement therapy
C. Encourage a high-calcium diet
D. Increase physical exercise

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: Ensuring regular thyroid hormone replacement therapy is crucial for managing congenital hypothyroidism in children. This therapy supports normal growth and development by replacing the deficient thyroid hormones. Monitoring for signs of hyperactivity (Choice A) is not the primary management for congenital hypothyroidism; rather, the focus should be on addressing the hormone deficiency. Encouraging a high-calcium diet (Choice C) may not directly address the thyroid hormone deficiency characteristic of congenital hypothyroidism. Increasing physical exercise (Choice D) is not the mainstay treatment for this condition; hormone replacement therapy is the cornerstone of management.