a health magazine contacts you for your expert opinion on what measure best describes the amounts of nutrients that should be consumed by the populati

HESI LPN

LPN Nutrition Practice Test

1. Which measure best describes the amounts of nutrients that should be consumed by the population?

A. The Dietary Reference Intakes, as they provide a set of nutrient intake values for healthy people in the United States and Canada
B. The Tolerable Upper Intake levels, as they indicate the maximum daily amount of a nutrient considered safe for most healthy people
C. The Estimated Average Requirements, as they reflect the average daily amount of a nutrient needed to maintain a specific function in half of the healthy individuals of a population
D. The Recommended Dietary Allowances, as they represent the average daily amount of a nutrient considered adequate to meet the known nutrient needs of practically all healthy individuals

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) are the best measure to describe the amounts of nutrients that should be consumed by the population. RDAs represent the average daily intake level that meets the nutrient requirements of nearly all (97-98%) healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender group. Choice A, the Dietary Reference Intakes, provide a set of nutrient intake values but do not specifically address the average daily amount of a nutrient considered adequate for practically all individuals. Choice B, the Tolerable Upper Intake levels, focus on the maximum daily amount of a nutrient deemed safe for most healthy people, not the average daily amount needed. Choice C, the Estimated Average Requirements, reflect the average daily amount of a nutrient needed by half of the healthy individuals, which is not as comprehensive as the RDAs that cater to nearly all healthy people.

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. What is a crucial aspect of managing a child with cystic fibrosis?

A. High-sugar diet
B. Daily chest physiotherapy
C. Frequent use of antacids
D. Limiting fluid intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Daily chest physiotherapy is crucial in managing cystic fibrosis as it helps clear mucus from the lungs, improves respiratory function, and reduces the risk of lung infections. High-sugar diets are not recommended for individuals with cystic fibrosis as they can contribute to mucus production, exacerbating respiratory issues. Frequent use of antacids is not a primary treatment for cystic fibrosis, as it does not address the underlying lung issues. Limiting fluid intake is not typically advised for individuals with cystic fibrosis, as adequate hydration is essential for maintaining lung function and thinning mucus secretions.

4. How should a caregiver manage a child with a known allergy to peanuts?

A. Avoid all peanut-containing products
B. Encourage regular exposure to peanuts
C. Administer antihistamines daily
D. Recommend peanut-containing supplements

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Avoiding peanut-containing products is crucial for managing a peanut allergy and preventing allergic reactions. Choice B suggesting regular exposure to peanuts can be harmful and trigger severe allergic reactions in a child with a peanut allergy. Regular exposure can increase the risk of anaphylaxis. Choice C of administering antihistamines daily is not a primary prevention strategy and should not be the first-line approach for managing a peanut allergy. Antihistamines only treat symptoms and do not prevent the allergic reaction. Choice D of recommending peanut-containing supplements can also lead to severe allergic reactions and is not recommended for a child with a known peanut allergy. It is essential to eliminate all sources of peanuts to prevent accidental exposure and potential life-threatening reactions.

5. What is the primary goal in managing a child with chronic asthma?

A. Achieve and maintain symptom control
B. Avoid all physical activity
C. Increase dietary sodium
D. Restrict medication use

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary goal in managing a child with chronic asthma is to achieve and maintain symptom control. This helps improve the child's quality of life by reducing asthma symptoms and exacerbations. Choice B is incorrect because avoiding all physical activity is not recommended for children with asthma; in fact, regular physical activity can be beneficial. Choice C is incorrect as increasing dietary sodium is not a primary goal in managing asthma. Choice D is incorrect because restricting medication use can lead to uncontrolled asthma symptoms and complications.