what should be monitored closely in a child receiving chemotherapy

HESI LPN

Nutrition Final Exam

1. What should be monitored closely in a child receiving chemotherapy?

A. Blood glucose levels
B. White blood cell count
C. Blood pressure
D. Heart rate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: White blood cell count. During chemotherapy, it is crucial to monitor the white blood cell count closely to detect potential neutropenia (low white blood cell count) and the associated risk of infections. Monitoring blood glucose levels (Choice A) is important for diabetic management and not directly related to chemotherapy. Blood pressure (Choice C) and heart rate (Choice D) are essential vital signs to monitor but are not the primary focus when monitoring a child receiving chemotherapy.

2. What is the primary goal in managing a child with cystic fibrosis?

A. Increase dietary fat intake
B. Prevent lung infections
C. Increase physical activity
D. Ensure high protein intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal in managing a child with cystic fibrosis is to prevent lung infections. Cystic fibrosis primarily affects the respiratory system, leading to thick mucus buildup in the lungs, which increases the risk of infections. Preventing lung infections through proper respiratory care, medications, airway clearance techniques, and vaccinations is crucial in managing cystic fibrosis. While dietary interventions like increasing dietary fat intake, ensuring high protein intake, and promoting physical activity are also important aspects of cystic fibrosis management, preventing lung infections takes precedence as it directly addresses a major complication of the condition.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. How is gastroesophageal reflux (GER) typically treated in infants?

A. Keeping the infant NPO
B. Thickening the formula or breast milk with cereal
C. Placing the infant to sleep on the side
D. Switching the infant to cow's milk

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Thickening the formula or breast milk with cereal is a common treatment for gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in infants. By adding cereal, the feedings become heavier, making it less likely for the stomach contents to reflux. Keeping the infant NPO (nothing by mouth) is not typically necessary for GER treatment and might not be appropriate. Placing the infant to sleep on the side is not recommended due to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Switching the infant to cow's milk is also not a recommended treatment for GER as it can exacerbate symptoms due to its protein content.