what dietary recommendation is essential for a child with phenylketonuria pku

HESI LPN

HESI PN Nutrition Practice Exam

1. What dietary recommendation is essential for a child with phenylketonuria (PKU)?

A. High-protein diet
B. Low-fat diet
C. Low-phenylalanine diet
D. High-fiber diet

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Low-phenylalanine diet.' Children with phenylketonuria (PKU) need to follow a low-phenylalanine diet to manage the condition. Phenylalanine is an amino acid found in protein-containing foods, and individuals with PKU have difficulty metabolizing it, leading to neurological damage and other complications. Therefore, restricting phenylalanine intake is crucial. Choice A, 'High-protein diet,' is incorrect because high protein intake would increase phenylalanine levels, worsening the condition. Choice B, 'Low-fat diet,' and Choice D, 'High-fiber diet,' are not the primary focus for PKU patients. The key dietary intervention for PKU is controlling phenylalanine intake, which is best achieved through a low-phenylalanine diet.

2. Which individual is making a food choice based on negative association?

A. A tourist from China who rejects a hamburger due to unfamiliarity
B. A child who spits out his mashed potatoes because they taste too salty
C. A teenager who grudgingly accepts an offer for an ice cream cone to avoid offending a close friend
D. An elderly gentleman who refuses a peanut butter and jelly sandwich because he considers it a child's food

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Choice D is the correct answer because the elderly gentleman is refusing the peanut butter and jelly sandwich due to his negative association of considering it a child's food. This negative association influences his food choice. Choices A, B, and C do not involve negative associations with the food being consumed. Choice A is based on unfamiliarity, Choice B is due to taste preference, and Choice C is driven by social considerations rather than negative food association.

3. Parents of a 6-month-old child, diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, ask why it was not diagnosed earlier. What should the nurse say?

A. Are you sure your child has iron deficiency anemia?
B. Maternal stores of iron are depleted at about 6 months.
C. This anemia is caused by blood loss.
D. The child may not have had it for a long time.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Maternal stores of iron are depleted at about 6 months.' Iron deficiency anemia becomes apparent around 6 months of age when the infant's iron stores, primarily received from the mother during pregnancy, are depleted. This timing coincides with the introduction of solid foods, which may lack sufficient iron. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the specific reason why iron deficiency anemia is typically diagnosed around 6 months of age.

4. What is a common symptom of a vitamin D deficiency in children?

A. Frequent infections
B. Bone pain and tenderness
C. Excessive thirst
D. Unexplained bruising

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Bone pain and tenderness are indeed common symptoms of vitamin D deficiency in children. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health and growth. The deficiency can lead to weakened bones, causing pain and tenderness. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Frequent infections are not a typical symptom of vitamin D deficiency in children; excessive thirst is more commonly associated with conditions like diabetes, and unexplained bruising is not directly linked to vitamin D deficiency.

5. What is an important dietary consideration for a child with celiac disease?

A. Increased iron intake
B. Gluten-free diet
C. High-protein diet
D. Low-sodium diet

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A gluten-free diet is crucial for managing celiac disease in children because it helps prevent intestinal damage and alleviate symptoms. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and it triggers an immune response in individuals with celiac disease, damaging the lining of the small intestine. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect. While iron intake is important for overall health, a child with celiac disease can still meet their iron needs through sources that are naturally gluten-free or fortified. A high-protein diet or a low-sodium diet are not specifically required for managing celiac disease.