Nutrition and Fluid Balance Flashcards
6 cards from real LVN practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Nutrition and Fluid Balance flashcards as text
What are the signs of dehydration?
Answer: Decreased urine output, dry mucous membranes, poor skin turgor, elevated heart rate, and confusion
Multiple signs indicate dehydration: concentrated urine, dry mouth, skin tenting, tachycardia, and altered mental status.
What is the purpose of I&O (intake and output) monitoring?
Answer: To track fluid balance by measuring all fluids consumed and excreted
I&O monitoring identifies fluid imbalances that could indicate kidney, heart, or other organ dysfunction.
What are the different types of therapeutic diets?
Answer: Regular, clear liquid, full liquid, soft, mechanical soft, pureed, and specialized diets for conditions
Different conditions and abilities require modified diets to ensure adequate nutrition and prevent complications.
What is enteral nutrition?
Answer: Nutrition delivered directly to the GI tract through a feeding tube
Enteral nutrition via nasogastric, gastrostomy, or jejunostomy tubes provides nutrition to patients who cannot eat orally but have a functioning GI tract.
What electrolyte imbalances should LVNs monitor for?
Answer: Sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium — each causing specific symptoms when too high or low
Electrolyte imbalances can cause cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, seizures, and other serious complications.
What are the signs of fluid overload?
Answer: Edema, weight gain, crackles in lungs, elevated blood pressure, and jugular vein distension
Fluid overload manifests across multiple systems: cardiovascular, respiratory, and peripheral.