ATI RN
ATI Proctored Nutrition Exam
1. Magnesium's major functions in the body would be least likely to include which of the following?
- A. allowing muscles to relax after contraction
- B. assisting the operation of hundreds of enzymes
- C. synthesis of protein in the soft tissues
- D. regulation of body temperature
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Magnesium plays a key role in muscle relaxation, enzyme operation, and protein synthesis, but it is not directly involved in regulating body temperature.
2. A healthcare provider is evaluating a client who reports paresthesia of the hands and feet. The provider should identify this manifestation as an indication of which of the following dietary deficiencies?
- A. Iron
- B. Riboflavin
- C. Vitamin C
- D. Vitamin B12
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Correct! Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms, including paresthesia (tingling or numbness) of the hands and feet, due to its role in nerve health. Iron deficiency is more commonly associated with anemia symptoms like fatigue and pallor. Riboflavin deficiency can cause mouth and skin changes. Vitamin C deficiency is linked to scurvy symptoms like bleeding gums and easy bruising.
3. What laboratory value would be considered a high-risk measure for coronary heart disease assessment?
- A. triglycerides > 150 mg/dL
- B. BMI > 31
- C. LDL cholesterol < 128 mg/dL
- D. blood pressure of 128/82 mmHg
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: BMI > 31. A BMI over 31 is considered a high-risk factor for coronary heart disease as it indicates obesity, which is strongly linked to cardiovascular issues. Triglycerides > 150 mg/dL (choice A) can contribute to heart disease risk but are not as specific as BMI in assessing overall risk. LDL cholesterol < 128 mg/dL (choice C) is actually a desirable level, indicating lower risk. A blood pressure of 128/82 mmHg (choice D) is within normal range and not a high-risk measure specifically for coronary heart disease.
4. Which food would benefit an anemic patient by increasing their intake?
- A. Beef
- B. Apples
- C. White bread
- D. Fish
Correct answer: A
Rationale: An anemic patient would benefit from increasing their intake of beef. Beef is an excellent source of heme iron, which is critical for treating anemia. Heme iron is absorbed more readily by the body compared to non-heme iron found in plant-based foods. Apples and white bread, while healthy, do not contain significant amounts of heme iron. Fish, although it does contain iron, it's non-heme iron, which is not as efficiently absorbed by the body as heme iron, hence less effective in treating anemia.
5. Which dietary modification is most suitable for a client with type 2 diabetes who wants to improve glycemic control?
- A. Increase intake of saturated fats
- B. Decrease intake of refined carbohydrates
- C. Completely avoid all fruits
- D. Increase intake of sugary snacks
Correct answer: Decrease intake of refined carbohydrates
Rationale: Decreasing the intake of refined carbohydrates is the most effective dietary modification for a client with type 2 diabetes who aims to improve their glycemic control. Refined carbohydrates can cause sudden spikes in blood sugar levels, making diabetes management more difficult. Increasing the intake of saturated fats (Choice A) is not advisable as it can negatively impact heart health. Completely avoiding all fruits (Choice C) is unnecessary because most fruits have a low glycemic index and provide essential nutrients. Increasing the intake of sugary snacks (Choice D) will deteriorate glycemic control due to their high sugar content.