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 dietary recommendation should be made to a child with iron-deficiency anemia?

A. Increase intake of dairy products
B. Include high-iron foods like spinach and meat
C. Decrease protein intake
D. Avoid all grains

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct recommendation for a child with iron-deficiency anemia is to include high-iron foods like spinach, red meat, and beans in their diet. These foods are rich sources of iron and can help address the deficiency. Choice A is incorrect as dairy products do not provide significant iron content. Choice C is incorrect because protein intake does not need to be decreased; in fact, lean meats are good sources of iron. Choice D is also incorrect as whole grains can be a part of a healthy diet and do not need to be avoided in this case.

3. How should a healthcare provider address the nutritional needs of a child with chronic kidney disease?

A. Increase protein intake
B. Reduce sodium and phosphorus intake
C. Promote a high-fat diet
D. Encourage frequent sugary snacks

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Reducing sodium and phosphorus intake is crucial in managing chronic kidney disease in children because it helps prevent complications such as electrolyte imbalances and bone problems. High protein intake can actually be harmful to the kidneys in this condition as it can lead to increased waste production. A high-fat diet is not recommended as it can contribute to heart and blood vessel problems. Encouraging frequent sugary snacks can lead to further complications like obesity and diabetes, which are not beneficial for a child with chronic kidney disease.

4. What is the main purpose of Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs)?

A. To provide guidelines for nutrient intakes that meet the needs of most healthy people.
B. To specify the minimum amount of nutrients required for survival.
C. To establish maximum safe levels of nutrient intakes.
D. To recommend specific nutrient intake levels to prevent chronic diseases.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main purpose of Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) is to provide guidelines for nutrient intakes that meet the needs of most healthy people. Choice B is incorrect because RDAs aim beyond just survival requirements. Choice C is incorrect because establishing maximum safe levels is the role of Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs). Choice D is incorrect because preventing chronic diseases is more associated with Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) like Adequate Intakes (AIs) and Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs). Therefore, the correct answer is A.

5. What should be a priority for a 4-year-old child with nephrosis?

A. Impaired body image
B. Skin impairment
C. Nutritional deficit
D. Injury

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Skin impairment. Skin care is a priority in nephrosis due to edema and increased risk of skin breakdown, requiring careful monitoring and management. While impaired body image (Choice A) can be a concern, it is not typically a priority in a 4-year-old with nephrosis. Nutritional deficit (Choice C) is important but addressing skin impairment takes precedence due to the immediate risk of complications related to skin breakdown. Injury (Choice D) is a general concern for children but is not the priority in a child with nephrosis.