CU 1-5 NUTRITION SCENARIO

A 2-year-old child from a low-income family is brought to the clinic with severe wasting, sunken eyes, and visible ribs. The mother reports that the child mainly eats diluted rice water and occasionally a piece of banana. On physical exam, the child is lethargic and underweight for age with no edema. As the nurse assessing this case, which condition is most likely?

• Kwashiorkor

• Iron-deficiency anemia

• Marasmus

• Celiac disease

During a community outreach program, a nurse evaluates a 4-year-old girl who has a bloated abdomen, pitting edema on both feet, and discolored, brittle hair. Her mother states that she eats mostly rice porridge with some sugar but very little meat or vegetables. What is the nurse's priority nutritional diagnosis based on these findings?

• Kwashiorkor

• Iron-deficiency anemia

• Marasmus

• Vitamin C deficiency

A patient recovering from a serious surgical wound asks why her diet includes extra meat, eggs, and milk. How should the nurse explain the importance of protein in this case?

• “Protein helps rebuild tissues and supports the immune system’s recovery process.”

• “It adds energy so you can feel more alert.”

• “Protein prevents water retention during healing.”

• “The dietitian added it randomly—it’s not essential.”

A nurse is reviewing the food intake history of a 20-year-old male athlete who’s consuming a high-protein, low-carb diet for body building. He now reports fatigue, irritability, and headaches during workouts. Which of the following would be the most appropriate nursing response?

• “Continue the plan—it’s normal for athletes to feel that way.”

• “Your symptoms may be related to insufficient carbohydrate intake, which is your primary energy source.”

• “You may be dehydrated from too much protein.”

• “Reduce your fat intake instead.”

A new mother asks if she should eliminate carbohydrates from her diet to lose weight post-pregnancy. What is the most accurate response by the nurse, considering lactation and maternal energy needs?

• “Carbs are unnecessary during lactation.”

• “You should rely on protein and fats alone.”

• “Avoid all carbs for at least 6 weeks.”

• “Carbohydrates are essential for milk production and overall energy—focus on complex carbs.”

While providing nutrition education to teenage girls, a nurse notices that one student claims to avoid all carbs and eat mostly meat and fried snacks to stay slim. What nutritional consequence should the nurse be most concerned about?

• Increased muscle strength

• High calcium retention

• Inadequate energy and micronutrient deficiencies

• Decreased insulin sensitivity

An elderly patient who recently transitioned to a vegetarian diet reports fatigue and tingling in her hands. The nurse notes pallor and a diet lacking fortified foods. What nutrient deficiency should the nurse suspect first?

• Iron

• Folate

• Vitamin B12

• Zinc

A nurse is conducting a nutrition workshop and is asked why dietary fiber is important. Which of the following is the most appropriate evidence-based response?

• “Fiber contains protein to build muscles.”

• “It increases weight loss by blocking carbs.”

• “Fiber reduces your calorie needs.”

• “It supports digestive health and lowers risk for chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.”

A 35-year-old male tells the nurse he only consumes processed food due to his work schedule. What long-term nutritional risk is most critical to address during the consultation?

• Low cholesterol

• Overhydration

• Micronutrient deficiencies and metabolic syndrome

• Hypervitaminosis

A severely undernourished child is placed on nutritional rehabilitation. The nurse is asked why feeding must start slowly and gradually increase. What is the best rationale?

• “To avoid stomach bloating.”

• “To allow the body to adjust to fiber.”

• “To prevent refeeding syndrome and allow safe nutrient absorption.”

• “To reduce the risk of vomiting due to hunger.”