Nursing Elites

1. Plant stanols and sterols help to lower LDL cholesterol and are often added to which food product?

• A. margarine
• B. milk
• C. cereal
• D. yogurt

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Plant stanols and sterols are commonly added to margarine to help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Margarine acts as a vehicle for these compounds, making it easier for individuals to incorporate them into their daily diet. While milk, cereal, and yogurt are healthy food options, they are not typically enriched with plant stanols and sterols for cholesterol-lowering purposes, making them less likely candidates as the correct answer.

2. Why is atherosclerosis dangerous to arterial function?

• A. It diminishes central circulation
• B. It causes decreased blood pressure on artery walls
• C. It narrows the arterial lumen so a clot can easily block it
• D. It increases arterial elasticity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Atherosclerosis is dangerous to arterial function because it narrows the arterial lumen, increasing the risk of a clot completely blocking the blood flow. This can lead to severe cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes. Choice A is incorrect since atherosclerosis does not primarily diminish central circulation, but rather, it impedes local blood flow where the plaque is present. Choice B is also incorrect as atherosclerosis increases the pressure on artery walls due to the narrowed space for blood flow, not decrease it. Lastly, choice D is incorrect as atherosclerosis causes the arteries to lose their elasticity, not increase it.

3. Each statement is true of proteins, except one. Which is the exception?

• A. Proteins are composed of building blocks called amino acids
• B. The classification of the 20 common amino acids is based on the properties of their side chains
• C. The general structure of an amino acid varies considerably
• D. Amino acids polymerize to form long chains called polypeptides

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The classification of the 20 common amino acids is not based on the properties of their side chains, but rather on the structure of their amino and carboxyl groups. These groups are consistent among all amino acids, while the side chains, also known as R groups, are what vary and give each amino acid its unique properties. Choice A is correct because proteins are indeed composed of amino acids. Choice C is incorrect because while the side chains of amino acids can vary, the general structure of an amino acid - a central carbon atom bonded to an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a side chain - is consistent. Choice D is correct because amino acids do polymerize to form long chains called polypeptides, which can then fold into complex shapes to form proteins.

4. Where is Vitamin E commonly found?

• A. produced by bacteria in the GI tract
• B. synthesized by the body through sunlight exposure
• C. associated with beriberi deficiency
• D. present in vegetable oils

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Vitamin E is an antioxidant commonly found in sources like vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables. It plays a crucial role in protecting cells from damage. Choices A and B are incorrect as Vitamin E is not produced by bacteria in the GI tract nor synthesized by sunlight exposure. Choice C is incorrect as beriberi is a deficiency of Vitamin B1 (thiamine), not Vitamin E.

5. Which of the following actions would be of highest priority with regards to the external shunt?

• A. Avoid taking blood pressure or blood sample from the arm with the shunt
• B. Instruct the patient not to exercise the arm with the shunt
• C. Heparinize the shunt daily
• D. Change the dressing of the shunt daily

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Heparinizing the shunt daily (choice C) is the highest priority action as it prevents the formation of blood clots that can occlude the shunt, leading to potential complications such as thrombosis. Avoiding taking blood pressure or blood samples from the arm with the shunt (choice A) is also important, but secondary to heparinizing the shunt. Similarly, instructing the patient not to exercise the arm with the shunt (choice B) can help prevent unnecessary strain on the shunt, but it is not as critical as preventing clot formation. Changing the dressing of the shunt daily (choice D) is a standard nursing care practice to prevent infection, but again, it is not as critical as ensuring the shunt remains patent through daily heparinization.

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