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. Which characteristic is most typical of a chronic disease?

A. It has a rapid onset.
B. It rarely has noticeable symptoms.
C. It produces sharp pains.
D. It progresses gradually.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Chronic diseases are characterized by a gradual progression over time, affecting individuals for an extended period. Option A is incorrect as chronic diseases do not have a rapid onset like acute conditions. Option B is incorrect as chronic diseases often manifest noticeable symptoms. Option C is incorrect as sharp pains are not a defining characteristic of chronic diseases. Chronic diseases can present a variety of symptoms depending on the specific condition, but gradual progression is a common feature distinguishing them from acute illnesses.

3. What is the result of the metabolism of energy nutrients?

A. Energy is released.
B. Body fat increases.
C. Energy is destroyed.
D. Body water decreases.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Energy is released during the metabolism of energy nutrients. This released energy is utilized by the body for various functions. Choice B is incorrect because the metabolism of energy nutrients does not directly result in an increase in body fat. Choice C is incorrect as energy is not destroyed but rather transformed and utilized by the body. Choice D is incorrect as the metabolism of energy nutrients does not lead to a decrease in body water.

4. What should be monitored in a child with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)?

A. Blood glucose levels
B. Electrolyte balance
C. Urine output
D. Hemoglobin levels

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a child with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), monitoring electrolyte balance is crucial. CAH can lead to adrenal insufficiency, causing imbalances in electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. Monitoring electrolyte levels helps in preventing complications like dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, and adrenal crisis. While blood glucose levels may need monitoring in other conditions like diabetes, it is not the primary concern in CAH. Urine output is important in assessing kidney function but is not a direct monitoring parameter for CAH. Hemoglobin levels are more relevant in conditions such as anemia, not specifically in CAH.

5. Your friend Carrie took a daily supplement of vitamin C and tells you that she feels a lot better. Her statement to you is best described as what?

A. an anecdote
B. theory
C. interpretation
D. conclusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'an anecdote.' An anecdote is a personal account or experience, not necessarily backed by scientific evidence. In this case, Carrie's statement about feeling better after taking vitamin C is based on her personal experience and does not constitute scientific evidence or a generalizable conclusion. Choice B, 'theory,' would imply a systematic explanation based on scientific evidence, which is not the case here. Choice C, 'interpretation,' typically involves explaining or understanding something based on available information, not a personal account. Choice D, 'conclusion,' would be a general statement derived from specific information or facts, which is not applicable in this context.