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 statement best describes the composition of most foods?

A. Most foods contain a mixture of the three energy nutrients, with one or two predominating.
B. Foods do not typically contain equal amounts of the three energy nutrients.
C. Most foods contain mixtures of the three energy nutrients, although only one or two may predominate.
D. Most foods contain all three energy nutrients in varying amounts.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Most foods contain a mixture of the three energy nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats), with one or two predominating. Choice A is correct because most foods do contain a combination of energy nutrients, with one or two types usually being predominant. Choice B is incorrect as foods typically do not contain equal amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Choice D is incorrect because most foods contain all three energy nutrients, not just one or two types.

3. Which lab result should be abnormal in a child with hemophilia?

A. Prothrombin time
B. Bleeding time
C. Platelet count
D. Partial thromboplastin time

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a child with hemophilia, the lab result that should be abnormal is the partial thromboplastin time (PTT). Hemophilia is a disorder that affects the clotting factors in the intrinsic pathway of coagulation, leading to a prolonged PTT. Prothrombin time (Choice A) assesses the extrinsic pathway and should be normal in hemophilia. Bleeding time (Choice B) evaluates platelet function, which is typically normal in hemophilia. Platelet count (Choice C) measures the number of platelets and is not directly affected by hemophilia.

4. Which statement is true of minerals in their role as nutrients?

A. They are organic compounds.
B. They yield 4 kilocalories per gram.
C. Some become dissolved in body fluids.
D. Some are destroyed during cooking.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct statement is that some minerals become dissolved in body fluids, making them available for absorption and utilization by the body. Minerals are not organic compounds, so choice A is incorrect. Choice B is incorrect because minerals do not provide energy like macronutrients such as carbohydrates and fats. Choice D is incorrect because minerals are elements and cannot be destroyed by cooking; however, their availability and absorption may be affected by cooking methods.

5. Which of the following is a common complication of an untreated inguinal hernia in children?

A. Gastroenteritis
B. Strangulation of the hernia
C. Chronic cough
D. Epistaxis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Strangulation of the hernia. Untreated inguinal hernias in children can lead to strangulation, which can result in bowel obstruction and ischemia. This is a serious complication that requires prompt medical attention. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Gastroenteritis is a gastrointestinal infection that is not directly related to untreated inguinal hernias. Chronic cough is not typically associated with this condition. Epistaxis refers to nosebleeds, which are not a common complication of untreated inguinal hernias in children.