Nutrition & Diet Therapy Flashcards

A patient with nephrotic syndrome requires increased intake of which nutrient to compensate for urinary losses?

Answer: Protein

Nephrotic syndrome causes massive proteinuria, so adequate protein intake is needed to replace urinary protein losses and maintain oncotic pressure.

The LVN is educating a patient about the DASH diet for hypertension management. Which food pattern is consistent with DASH diet principles?

Answer: Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy

The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy while limiting sodium and saturated fat.

Which finding is characteristic of scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency?

Answer: Bleeding gums and perifollicular hemorrhages

Vitamin C is required for collagen synthesis; deficiency causes weakened blood vessel walls, resulting in bleeding gums and skin hemorrhages.

A patient with phenylketonuria (PKU) must restrict which amino acid?

Answer: Phenylalanine

PKU is caused by a deficiency of phenylalanine hydroxylase, so phenylalanine must be restricted to prevent neurotoxic accumulation.

The LVN is providing dietary teaching to a patient taking an MAOI antidepressant. Which food must be STRICTLY avoided?

Answer: Aged cheeses and cured meats

Aged cheeses and cured meats contain tyramine, which can cause a hypertensive crisis when MAOIs prevent its breakdown.

Which macronutrient provides the MOST calories per gram?

Answer: Fat (9 kcal/g)

Fat provides 9 kilocalories per gram, more than twice the energy density of carbohydrates or protein.

A patient with dysphagia is at risk for aspiration. Which food texture is SAFEST for this patient?

Answer: Pureed foods and thickened liquids

Pureed foods and nectar- or honey-thickened liquids move more slowly and cohesively, reducing aspiration risk in patients with dysphagia.