what is a causative factor of hirschsprung disease

HESI LPN

HESI PN Nutrition Practice Exam

1. What is a causative factor of Hirschsprung disease?

A. Frequent evacuation of solids, liquids, and gases
B. Excessive peristaltic movement
C. Absence of parasympathetic ganglion cells in a portion of the colon
D. One portion of the bowel telescoping into another

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Absence of parasympathetic ganglion cells in a portion of the colon. Hirschsprung disease is a congenital condition characterized by the absence of nerve cells (ganglia) in parts of the colon. This absence leads to a lack of peristalsis in the affected segment, resulting in severe constipation and bowel obstruction. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A describes symptoms of diarrhea rather than a causative factor of Hirschsprung disease. Excessive peristaltic movement (choice B) is not a causative factor but rather the opposite, as Hirschsprung disease is associated with reduced peristalsis. Choice D, which refers to intussusception, is a different condition unrelated to Hirschsprung disease.

2. An essential nutrient is one that ___

A. must be made in large quantities by the body
B. can only be synthesized by the body
C. cannot be made in sufficient quantities by the body
D. is used to synthesize other compounds in the body

Correct answer: C

Rationale: An essential nutrient is a substance that cannot be made in sufficient quantities by the body itself, so it must be obtained from the diet. Choice A is incorrect because essential nutrients are required in specific amounts, not necessarily large quantities. Choice B is incorrect as essential nutrients cannot be synthesized by the body at all. Choice D is incorrect because although essential nutrients may be used in the synthesis of other compounds, that is not the defining characteristic of an essential nutrient.

3. What is a common complication of untreated type 1 diabetes in children?

A. Diabetic ketoacidosis
B. High blood pressure
C. Asthma
D. Frequent infections

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious complication of untreated type 1 diabetes in children. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels, ketones in the urine, and acidosis. Prompt medical attention is required to manage this condition. High blood pressure (Choice B) can be a complication of diabetes but is not as directly linked to untreated type 1 diabetes as diabetic ketoacidosis. Asthma (Choice C) and frequent infections (Choice D) are not typically associated with untreated type 1 diabetes in children.

4. Why must a child with acute laryngotracheobronchitis be kept NPO?

A. The epinephrine administration may cause nausea and vomiting
B. The child is being hydrated with IV fluids
C. The child may not feel hungry
D. Rapid respirations pose a risk for aspiration

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In acute laryngotracheobronchitis, rapid respirations increase the risk of aspiration due to compromised airway protection and potential for secretions to enter the lungs. Keeping the child NPO helps prevent the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Choice A is incorrect because epinephrine is not typically used for laryngotracheobronchitis. Choice B is incorrect as hydration with IV fluids does not eliminate the risk of aspiration. Choice C is also incorrect because the child being hungry is not the primary reason for keeping them NPO in this condition.

5. What is a key dietary consideration for a child with phenylketonuria (PKU)?

A. High-fiber diet
B. Low-phenylalanine diet
C. Increased dairy intake
D. High-sodium diet

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A low-phenylalanine diet is crucial for managing PKU to prevent neurological damage and maintain normal development. Phenylalanine is an amino acid found in protein-containing foods, and individuals with PKU have difficulty metabolizing it. Consuming foods low in phenylalanine helps prevent the buildup of toxic byproducts in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. A high-fiber diet, increased dairy intake, and high-sodium diet are not specific dietary considerations for PKU management. In fact, dairy products are a source of protein and phenylalanine, which should be limited in PKU.