Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary function of protein in the diet?

• A. supply energy.
• B. synthesize vitamins.
• C. build and repair tissue.
• D. store glycogen.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of protein in the diet is to build and repair tissues. Proteins are essential for the growth, maintenance, and repair of body tissues like muscles, skin, and organs. While proteins can be a source of energy, their primary role is not to supply energy, making choice A incorrect. Choice B is also incorrect as proteins do not synthesize vitamins; rather, they are essential nutrients themselves. Choice D is inaccurate because glycogen is a form of stored glucose in the body, not a function of protein.

2. During the process of deamination, the nitrogen portion of amino acids is converted to:

• A. ammonia.
• B. protein.
• C. purines.
• D. glycogen.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During the process of deamination, the nitrogen portion of amino acids is converted to ammonia. This occurs in the liver as part of the process to remove excess nitrogen from the body. Choice B, 'protein,' is incorrect as deamination breaks down amino acids rather than synthesizing proteins. Choice C, 'purines,' is incorrect as purines are a type of nitrogenous base found in DNA and RNA, not a product of deamination. Choice D, 'glycogen,' is incorrect as glycogen is a storage form of glucose and not a product of amino acid deamination.

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. Signs of malnutrition can appear when:

• A. nutrient reserves are depleted.
• B. nutrient intake exceeds daily needs.
• C. energy intake is restricted.
• D. caloric expenditure increases.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'nutrient reserves are depleted.' Signs of malnutrition manifest when the body's reserves of essential nutrients are exhausted and can no longer sustain health. Choice B is incorrect because excessive nutrient intake exceeding daily needs does not lead to malnutrition but may cause other health issues. Choice C is incorrect as restricting energy intake may lead to weight loss but not necessarily malnutrition. Choice D is also incorrect as increasing caloric expenditure does not directly cause malnutrition.

5. In which individual does negative nitrogen balance occur?

• A. Adult who engages in a weight-training program.
• B. Woman who is pregnant or lactating.
• C. Child who is growing.
• D. Older adult with anorexia.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Negative nitrogen balance occurs when the body loses more nitrogen than it gains. This imbalance is often seen in conditions like anorexia in older adults, where insufficient protein intake leads to muscle breakdown and negative nitrogen balance. Choices A, B, and C do not typically lead to negative nitrogen balance as seen in anorexia in older adults.

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