what does the term essential nutrient refer to

HESI LPN

HESI PN Nutrition Practice Exam

1. What does the term 'essential nutrient' refer to?

A. A nutrient that can be synthesized by the body.
B. A nutrient that is required for proper body functioning.
C. A nutrient that must be obtained from the diet because the body cannot produce it.
D. A nutrient that can be stored in the body for long periods.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. An essential nutrient is a substance that is necessary for normal body functioning but cannot be synthesized in adequate amounts by the body, therefore it must be obtained from the diet. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because essential nutrients are not synthesized by the body, they are necessary for body functioning, and they are not typically stored in the body for long periods.

2. Which of the following statements about nutrition is true?

A. Nutrition is the only factor that influences health.
B. Nutrient needs are the same for everyone.
C. Certain nutrients are more important than others.
D. Nutrient recommendations are designed to meet the needs of most healthy people.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Nutrient recommendations are designed to meet the needs of most healthy people, providing guidelines for a balanced diet. Choice A is incorrect because while nutrition plays a crucial role in health, it is not the only factor influencing it. Choice B is incorrect as nutrient needs vary based on factors like age, gender, activity level, and health status. Choice C is incorrect because all nutrients are essential for different bodily functions, and none can be deemed universally more important than others.

3. What should be monitored in a child with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)?

A. Blood glucose levels
B. Electrolyte balance
C. Urine output
D. Hemoglobin levels

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a child with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), monitoring electrolyte balance is crucial. CAH can lead to adrenal insufficiency, causing imbalances in electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. Monitoring electrolyte levels helps in preventing complications like dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, and adrenal crisis. While blood glucose levels may need monitoring in other conditions like diabetes, it is not the primary concern in CAH. Urine output is important in assessing kidney function but is not a direct monitoring parameter for CAH. Hemoglobin levels are more relevant in conditions such as anemia, not specifically in CAH.

4. Which of the following best describes the purpose of dietary guidelines?

A. To ensure food safety and sanitation.
B. To promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
C. To prevent foodborne illnesses.
D. To provide recommendations for physical activity.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.' Dietary guidelines aim to improve public health by providing recommendations on dietary patterns and nutrient intake. While ensuring food safety and sanitation (choice A) is important, it is not the primary purpose of dietary guidelines. Preventing foodborne illnesses (choice C) is more related to food safety practices rather than dietary guidelines. Recommendations for physical activity (choice D) are important for overall health but are separate from dietary guidelines, which primarily focus on nutrition.

5. A weight reduction regimen calls for a daily intake of 1400 kilocalories, which includes 30 grams of fat. What percentage of the total energy is contributed by fat?

A. 8.50%
B. 15.00%
C. 19.00%
D. 25.50%

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To calculate the percentage of total energy contributed by fat, first determine the energy from fat by multiplying the fat amount (30g) by the energy density of fat (9 kcal/g), which equals 270 kcal. Then, divide the energy from fat (270 kcal) by the total energy intake (1400 kcal) and multiply by 100 to find the percentage: (270 kcal / 1400 kcal) * 100 = 19.29% ≈ 19.00%. Therefore, fat contributes approximately 19% of the total energy in the diet. Choice A (8.50%) is too low, while choices B (15.00%) and D (25.50%) are incorrect calculations based on the given information.