Nursing Elites

1. The type of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) that develops when the diet lacks protein is called:

• A. kwashiorkor.
• B. marasmus.
• C. anemia.
• D. beriberi.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: kwashiorkor. Kwashiorkor is a form of protein-energy malnutrition that arises due to a protein-deficient diet. This condition leads to symptoms such as edema, skin lesions, and fatty liver. Choice B, marasmus, is a form of PEM caused by overall malnutrition (protein and calorie deficiency), resulting in severe wasting and muscle loss. Choice C, anemia, is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, not specifically related to protein deficiency. Choice D, beriberi, is a disease caused by thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency, not a form of PEM related to protein deficiency.

2. Which age group is particularly vulnerable to malnutrition?

• A. Infants
• B. Teenagers
• C. Young adults
• D. Middle-aged adults

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Infants are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition due to their high growth rate and specific nutrient requirements. During the first year of life, infants experience rapid growth and development, requiring essential nutrients for proper physical and cognitive development. Teenagers, young adults, and middle-aged adults have more stable nutritional needs compared to infants, making them less vulnerable to malnutrition. Therefore, infants are the most susceptible age group when it comes to malnutrition.

3. Why is fat important in the diet?

• A. It supplies a constant source of vitamins.
• B. It speeds up the digestive process.
• C. It provides satiety.
• D. It stimulates the release of important digestive enzymes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Fat is important in the diet because it provides satiety. Fat slows down digestion and absorption, which helps in making you feel full longer. This feeling of fullness is crucial in controlling food intake and managing weight. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because fat's main role in providing satiety is related to slowing down digestion, not supplying a constant source of vitamins, speeding up digestion, or stimulating the release of digestive enzymes. While some types of fats can provide certain vitamins, the main purpose of fat in satiety is not vitamin supply.

4. Infections are common in people who have inadequate protein intake because of an insufficient quantity of:

• A. insulin.
• B. lipoprotein.
• C. antibodies.
• D. albumin.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Inadequate protein intake can lead to a decrease in antibody production, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Insulin (Choice A) is a hormone involved in regulating blood sugar levels, not related to protein intake. Lipoprotein (Choice B) is a type of lipid-protein complex involved in lipid transport, not directly related to antibody production. Albumin (Choice D) is a protein that helps maintain oncotic pressure and carries various substances in the blood, but it is not primarily responsible for fighting infections like antibodies.

5. Individual nutrients are characterized by their ability to:

• A. work independently.
• B. fulfill specific metabolic roles.
• C. influence weight loss.
• D. improve mental status.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'fulfill specific metabolic roles.' Nutrients play essential roles in specific metabolic processes in the body such as energy production, tissue repair, and growth. Choice A, 'work independently,' is incorrect as nutrients often work synergistically rather than alone. Choice C, 'influence weight loss,' is incorrect as while some nutrients may support weight loss indirectly through metabolic processes, it is not their primary characteristic. Choice D, 'improve mental status,' is also incorrect as while some nutrients are important for brain health, their primary role is not specifically to improve mental status.

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