Therapeutic Diets and Enteral Feedings Flashcards
7 cards from real LPN practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Therapeutic Diets and Enteral Feedings flashcards as text
The LPN is preparing to flush a jejunostomy tube. Which solution is recommended for routine tube flushes?
Answer: Tap water (for adults with intact immune systems)
Tap water is generally acceptable for flushing feeding tubes in immunocompetent adults; sterile water is used for immunocompromised patients or jejunostomy tubes per facility policy.
A patient with COPD requires nutritional support. Which dietary modification is most appropriate to reduce carbon dioxide production?
Answer: High-fat, lower-carbohydrate diet
High-fat, lower-carbohydrate diets reduce CO2 production from carbohydrate metabolism, which eases the respiratory burden in COPD patients.
When initiating continuous enteral feedings, the LPN should start at what rate and advance how?
Answer: Low rate (10–20 mL/hr) and increase gradually as tolerated per orders
Starting at a low rate and advancing gradually allows the GI tract to adjust and helps prevent intolerance symptoms like nausea and diarrhea.
A patient on a fluid-restricted diet due to hyponatremia asks if gelatin (Jell-O) is allowed. The LPN correctly responds:
Answer: No, gelatin is counted as a fluid because it is liquid at room temperature
Any food that is liquid at room temperature, including gelatin, ice cream, and ice chips, counts toward fluid restrictions.
The LPN is caring for a patient with a new PEG tube. What is the earliest the skin around the PEG site should be cleaned?
Answer: 24 hours after insertion using soap and water as ordered
PEG site care typically begins 24 hours post-insertion using soap and water to prevent infection while allowing initial healing.
A patient receiving enteral nutrition develops hyperglycemia. Which nursing action is the priority?
Answer: Monitor blood glucose per orders and notify the provider for management
Hyperglycemia during enteral feeding should be documented, monitored per orders, and reported to the provider who will determine appropriate management.
Which dietary modification is most appropriate for a patient with iron-deficiency anemia?
Answer: Increase heme iron foods and consume vitamin C with iron-rich meals
Heme iron (from meat) is well-absorbed, and vitamin C enhances non-heme iron absorption; calcium and milk inhibit iron absorption.