Nursing Elites

1. Sugar alcohols have anticariogenic properties and can protect the teeth by decreasing demineralization, enhancing remineralization, or increasing salivary flow, even in the presence of a fermentable carbohydrate. Name 3 sugar alcohols.

• A. Sorbitol
• B. Mannitol
• C. Xylitol
• D. Erythritol

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol are commonly used in sugar-free products and have properties that help protect teeth from caries by promoting remineralization and increasing salivary flow. Erythritol is another common sugar alcohol used as a sweetener in various products, but it was not listed in the question.

2. What is the primary function of antioxidants in the diet?

• A. Provide energy
• B. Support muscle growth
• C. Neutralize free radicals
• D. Increase blood sugar

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of antioxidants in the diet is to neutralize free radicals. Free radicals can cause cellular damage, leading to various chronic diseases. Antioxidants help combat this oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because antioxidants do not provide energy, support muscle growth, or increase blood sugar; their main role is in combating oxidative stress.

3. What differentiates one amino acid from another?

• A. The amine group
• B. The acid group
• C. The side chain
• D. None of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The side chain, also known as the R group, is what differentiates one amino acid from another. It imparts unique properties to each amino acid, thereby influencing their roles and functions in proteins. The amine group (Choice A) and the acid group (Choice B) are components of all amino acids and do not cause the differences among various amino acids. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests that none of the given options account for the differences, which is not true as the side chain does.

4. When assessing for criteria that signify malnutrition risk, which element would most likely be included as part of the functional assessment data?

• A. severity of illness
• B. presence of pressure sores
• C. localized edema
• D. generalized weakness

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Generalized weakness is a key indicator of malnutrition and is often assessed as part of functional status, reflecting muscle wasting and reduced physical function. The other choices, such as severity of illness, presence of pressure sores, and localized edema, are important factors to consider in a clinical assessment but are not primarily indicative of malnutrition risk. Generalized weakness directly relates to the functional impact of malnutrition on physical performance.

5. 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.

Similar Questions