what is the primary role of dietary guidelines

HESI LPN

Nutrition Final Exam

1. What is the primary role of dietary guidelines?

A. To ensure that all food groups are consumed in appropriate proportions.
B. To prevent chronic diseases and promote overall well-being.
C. To help individuals meet their nutritional needs while reducing the risk of chronic disease.
D. To offer specific recommendations for the intake of nutrients that support health.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To help individuals meet their nutritional needs while reducing the risk of chronic disease.' Dietary guidelines are designed to provide guidance on the types and amounts of food that support good health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Choice A has been corrected to mention 'appropriate proportions' instead of 'equal amounts,' as dietary guidelines emphasize balance and variety. Choice B is partially correct, but the primary focus of dietary guidelines is on meeting nutritional needs. Choice D is incorrect because while dietary guidelines may include nutrient recommendations, their primary focus is on overall dietary patterns rather than specific nutrient intake.

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. 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.

4. How many minerals are known to be essential for human nutrition?

A. 8
B. 12
C. 16
D. 20

Correct answer: C

Rationale: There are 16 essential minerals required for human nutrition. These minerals include calcium, potassium, iron, and others. Choice A (8) is incorrect as it underestimates the number of essential minerals. Choice B (12) is also incorrect as it does not encompass the full count of essential minerals. Choice D (20) is incorrect as it overestimates the number of essential minerals.

5. 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.