Nutrition Flashcards

A nurse is assessing a client for signs of vitamin B12 deficiency. Which finding is most consistent with this deficiency?

Answer: Megaloblastic anemia

Vitamin B12 deficiency impairs DNA synthesis in red blood cell precursors, leading to megaloblastic anemia with large, immature RBCs.

A client asks a nurse about the primary function of carbohydrates in the body. Which response is most accurate?

Answer: Providing the primary source of energy

Carbohydrates are the body's preferred and primary fuel source, especially for the brain and red blood cells.

A nurse is caring for a client with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Which dietary restriction is most important to implement?

Answer: Restrict phosphorus and potassium

In CKD, impaired kidney function leads to accumulation of phosphorus and potassium, making dietary restriction of these minerals essential.

Which assessment finding indicates a client is experiencing thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency?

Answer: Beriberi

Beriberi is the classic disease caused by thiamine deficiency and presents with cardiovascular and neurological symptoms.

A nurse is counseling a lactating client about calcium needs. How many milligrams of calcium per day are recommended for breastfeeding women?

Answer: 1000 mg/day

The recommended daily intake of calcium for lactating women is 1000 mg/day to support milk production and maintain maternal bone density.

A client is following a low-sodium diet for hypertension. Which food item should the nurse advise the client to limit?

Answer: Canned soup

Canned soups are typically high in sodium, often containing 700–1000 mg per serving, making them inappropriate for a sodium-restricted diet.

A nurse is teaching a client about omega-3 fatty acids. Which dietary source provides the highest concentration of EPA and DHA?

Answer: Fatty fish (salmon)

Fatty fish like salmon are the richest sources of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which are most bioavailable from marine sources.