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. What is a common sign of an allergic reaction in children?

A. Persistent cough
B. Skin rash or hives
C. Increased appetite
D. Low-grade fever

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Skin rash or hives are common signs of an allergic reaction in children, often following exposure to allergens. While a persistent cough can occur in some cases, it is not typically a primary sign of an allergic reaction. Increased appetite is unrelated to allergic reactions. A low-grade fever is not a common sign of an allergic reaction but can be present in other conditions like infections.

3. What should the nurse anticipate as challenging in caring for a child with acute glomerulonephritis?

A. Forced fluids
B. Increased feedings
C. Bed rest
D. Frequent position changes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Bed rest. Implementing bed rest can be challenging, especially in active children, but it's necessary to manage the symptoms of acute glomerulonephritis. Forced fluids (choice A) may be required to maintain hydration but are not typically challenging. Increased feedings (choice B) and frequent position changes (choice D) are not primary interventions in the care of a child with acute glomerulonephritis.

4. How should a caregiver handle a child with a known peanut allergy?

A. Educate on allergen avoidance
B. Increase exposure to peanuts
C. Administer antihistamines as needed
D. Suggest occasional consumption of peanuts

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Educating on allergen avoidance is the correct approach when dealing with a child who has a known peanut allergy. This helps in managing the allergy effectively and preventing potential allergic reactions. Increasing exposure to peanuts (Choice B) is dangerous and can trigger severe allergic reactions in a child with a peanut allergy. While antihistamines (Choice C) can help alleviate some symptoms, they should not be the primary method of managing a peanut allergy. Suggesting occasional consumption of peanuts (Choice D) is extremely risky and should never be done for a child with a known peanut allergy.

5. What is the primary role of dietary guidelines?

A. To ensure that all food groups are consumed in appropriate proportions.
B. To prevent chronic diseases and promote overall well-being.
C. To help individuals meet their nutritional needs while reducing the risk of chronic disease.
D. To offer specific recommendations for the intake of nutrients that support health.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To help individuals meet their nutritional needs while reducing the risk of chronic disease.' Dietary guidelines are designed to provide guidance on the types and amounts of food that support good health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Choice A has been corrected to mention 'appropriate proportions' instead of 'equal amounts,' as dietary guidelines emphasize balance and variety. Choice B is partially correct, but the primary focus of dietary guidelines is on meeting nutritional needs. Choice D is incorrect because while dietary guidelines may include nutrient recommendations, their primary focus is on overall dietary patterns rather than specific nutrient intake.