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. Before publication in a reputable journal, the findings of a research study must undergo scrutiny by experts in the field in a process known as what?

A. peer review
B. cohort review
C. research intervention
D. double-blind examination

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: peer review. Before publication, research findings must undergo peer review, where experts in the field evaluate the validity and significance of the study. Choice B, cohort review, is incorrect as it does not involve the same level of evaluation by experts. Choice C, research intervention, is not a term used to describe the evaluation process before publication. Choice D, double-blind examination, refers to a study design where neither the participants nor the researchers know who is receiving a particular treatment, which is not the same as the peer review process.

3. 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.

4. What is one primary factor that influences nutrient needs in individuals?

A. Age
B. Gender
C. Genetics
D. Physical activity level

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Correct. Age is one of the primary factors influencing nutrient needs. Different life stages, such as infancy, childhood, adulthood, and old age, require varying amounts of nutrients. Gender (choice B) can influence nutrient needs to some extent, but age plays a more significant role. Genetics (choice C) may affect how individuals metabolize certain nutrients but is not a primary factor in determining overall nutrient needs. Physical activity level (choice D) can impact energy requirements but is not as fundamental as age in influencing overall nutrient needs.

5. After surgical repair of a cleft palate, what should be used to prevent injury to the suture line?

A. Straw
B. Spoon
C. Syringe
D. Cup

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Syringe. Using a syringe helps in feeding without causing injury to the suture line after cleft palate repair because it avoids direct contact with the suture area. Straws and spoons can potentially put pressure on the suture line, leading to injury. Cups may not provide the necessary control to prevent contact with the suture line, unlike a syringe.