FREE LPN Therapeutic Diets and Enteral Feedings Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client with dysphagia is being advanced to a diet as tolerated. Which diet would be most appropriate to start with to minimize the risk of aspiration?

Accepted Answer

Pureed diet

Answer

A pureed diet consists of foods that are blended to a smooth, pudding-like consistency. This texture is easier to swallow for clients with dysphagia and reduces the risk of food particles entering the airway (aspiration). Mechanical soft, regular, and full liquid diets contain textures that can be more difficult to manage.

Question 2

An LPN is reinforcing dietary teaching for a client newly diagnosed with hypertension. Which dietary recommendation is most important to include?

Accepted Answer

Restrict sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg/day.

Answer

Sodium intake is directly linked to fluid retention and increased blood pressure. A low-sodium diet is a cornerstone of non-pharmacological management for hypertension. While reducing fat and sugar is healthy, sodium restriction is the priority for managing this specific condition.

Question 3

Before administering a bolus enteral feeding via a nasogastric (NG) tube, what is the LPN's priority action?

Accepted Answer

Check for gastric residual volume.

Answer

Checking for gastric residual volume is the priority action before administering a bolus feeding. This assesses gastric emptying and helps prevent over-distention and aspiration. If the residual volume is high (per facility policy), the feeding may need to be held and the provider notified.

Question 4

A client is receiving continuous enteral feeding. To prevent aspiration, the LPN should ensure the head of the bed is maintained at what minimum elevation?

Accepted Answer

30 degrees

Answer

Maintaining the head of the bed at an elevation of 30 to 45 degrees is a critical safety measure to prevent regurgitation and aspiration of gastric contents in a client receiving enteral feedings. This semi-Fowler's position uses gravity to help keep the formula in the stomach.

Question 5

A client is prescribed a clear liquid diet following abdominal surgery. Which of the following items is appropriate for the LPN to offer?

Accepted Answer

Lemon gelatin

Answer

A clear liquid diet includes liquids that are transparent and do not contain any solids or pulp. Gelatin is considered a clear liquid as it is liquid at body temperature. Orange juice with pulp, milk, and cream of chicken soup are not permitted on a clear liquid diet.

LPN - Licensed Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN - Licensed Practical Nurse Practice Test

FREE LPN Therapeutic Diets and Enteral Feedings Questions and Answers