Nursing Elites

1. Which condition may benefit from branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, and valine)?

• A. cancer-related malnutrition
• B. marasmus
• C. cardiovascular disease
• D. severe depression

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Branched chain amino acids, such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine, are essential in preventing muscle breakdown. Therefore, they may be particularly important for a patient with cancer-related malnutrition, where maintaining muscle mass is crucial. Marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition characterized by energy deficiency, not specifically related to cancer. Cardiovascular disease and severe depression do not have a direct correlation with the need for branched chain amino acids to prevent muscle breakdown.

2. What is the primary function of carbohydrates as a food source?

• A. Regulate metabolic processes.
• B. Build body tissue.
• C. Supply energy.
• D. Provide bulk.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of carbohydrates as a food source is to supply energy. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy, providing fuel for various physiological functions. Choice A is incorrect because carbohydrates do not primarily regulate metabolic processes; that role is mainly attributed to enzymes and hormones. Choice B is incorrect because proteins are primarily responsible for building body tissue. Choice D is incorrect because fiber, not all carbohydrates, provides bulk in the diet.

3. An important characteristic of amino acids is that they can:

• A. act as buffers.
• B. facilitate glucose storage.
• C. regulate heartbeat.
• D. control the level of blood cholesterol.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: act as buffers. Amino acids can act as buffers by helping to maintain the pH balance in the body. Choice B is incorrect because amino acids do not primarily facilitate glucose storage. Choice C is incorrect as amino acids do not regulate the heartbeat. Choice D is also incorrect because amino acids do not control the level of blood cholesterol.

4. Which observation provides evidence that a person has good nutritional status?

• A. Small muscle mass.
• B. Normal weight-to-height ratio.
• C. Smooth tongue.
• D. Fragile skin.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A normal weight-to-height ratio is a reliable indicator of good nutritional status as it suggests that the person is well-nourished and not underweight or overweight. Small muscle mass (choice A) can indicate malnutrition, a smooth tongue (choice C) can be a sign of vitamin deficiencies, and fragile skin (choice D) can be a sign of poor nutrition or other health issues, but they are not as direct indicators of good nutritional status as a normal weight-to-height ratio.

5. Which of the following foods are major sources of starch?

• A. Fruits
• B. Meats
• C. Legumes
• D. Milk

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Legumes. Legumes, such as beans and lentils, are major sources of starch, providing complex carbohydrates. Fruits (choice A) mainly provide sugars rather than starch. Meats (choice B) and milk (choice D) are not significant sources of starch as they mainly provide protein and fats, respectively. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect.

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