chapter 7
Water is the most critical nutrient, making up about __% of an adult's body weight
50-70%
what are the building blocks of all matter?
atoms
A nurse teaches a client that water-soluble vitamins differ from fat-soluble vitamins becau
A. Are stored in large amounts in the liver
B. Require dietary fat for absorption
C. Are excreted easily in urine
D. Are more likely to cause toxicity se they:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Water-soluble vitamins (B-complex, C) are not stored extensively and excess is excreted in urine.
Which factor increases a client’s risk for dehydration?
A. High sodium intake
B. Low ambient temperature
C. Drinking caffeinated beverages
D. Increased physical activity
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Physical activity increases water losses through sweat; dehydration risk rises without adequate fluid intake.
A client asks what “energy balance” means. The nurse responds:
A. “Eating only protein for energy.”
B. “Balancing the number of calories eaten with the number of calories burned.”
C. “Avoiding all fats in the diet.”
D. “Exercising 60 minutes every day.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Energy balance occurs when energy intake equals energy expenditure.
A nurse is teaching an athlete about carbohydrate needs. Which statement is correct?
A. “Carbohydrates are stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen.”
B. “Carbohydrates cannot be used during high-intensity exercise.”
C. “Most calories for athletes should come from protein.”
D. “Fat replaces carbohydrates during sprinting.”
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Glycogen is the storage form of carbohydrate used during exercise, especially high intensity.
A pregnant client asks why folate is important during early pregnancy. The nurse responds:
A. “It prevents postpartum hemorrhage.”
B. “It supports fetal lung development.”
C. “It helps prevent neural tube defects.”
D. “It reduces the risk of preeclampsia.”
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Folate is essential in the first weeks of pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida.
A nurse teaching parents about toddler nutrition stresses that toddlers need:
A. Very low-fat diets
B. High-calorie foods with many added sugars
C. Nutrient-dense snacks because of small stomach size
D. Large meals three times daily
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Toddlers require small, frequent, nutrient-dense meals due to limited stomach capacity.
The nurse explains that “wellness” is best defined as:
A. The absence of disease
B. A dynamic process of making healthy choices
C. Achieving perfect physical functioning
D. Exercising at least 5 times per week
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Wellness is a dynamic, ongoing process of making conscious choices toward a healthier life, not merely the absence of illness.
what are the key roles of water in the body?
Acts as a Solvent: Water dissolves substances (nutrients, minerals, glucose) allowing them to be transported throughout the body in the blood and lymph.1
• Regulates Body Temperature: It absorbs heat, and its evaporation from the skin (sweating) dissipates heat to cool the body.
• Lubrication and Cushioning: It lubricates joints, eyes, and the digestive tract, and cushions sensitive tissues like the brain and spinal cord.2
• Aids Metabolism: Water is a reactant in many metabolic and chemical reactions (hydrolysis).
• Removes Waste: It allows for the excretion of waste products via urine and feces.
what are the elements of a atom?
neutrons(no charge)
protons(positive charged)
electrons(negative charge)
A patient has a deficiency in thiamin (Vitamin B1). Which condition is the nurse most concerned about?
A. Beriberi
B. Pellagra
C. Scurvy
D. Night blindness
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Thiamin deficiency causes beriberi; pellagra = niacin deficiency, scurvy = vitamin C deficiency, night blindness = vitamin A deficiency.
The nurse recognizes that the primary function of sodium in the body is to:
A. Regulate oxygen transportation
B. Maintain fluid balance and nerve transmission
C. Synthesize amino acids
D. Increase bone density
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sodium helps regulate extracellular fluid balance and is essential for nerve impulses and muscle contraction.
Which component of total energy expenditure accounts for the largest percentage of daily calories burned?
A. Physical activity
B. Basal metabolic rate (BMR)
C. Thermic effect of food
D. Adaptive thermogenesis
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: BMR makes up 60–75% of energy expenditure.
A runner asks why she “hits the wall” during long races. The nurse explains this happens when:
A. Protein levels drop
B. Glycogen stores are depleted
C. Fat intake is too high
D. Vitamin C is low
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Hitting the wall occurs when muscle and liver glycogen stores run out.
A nurse teaches a pregnant client about weight gain. The recommended weight gain for a woman with a normal BMI is:
A. 10–15 lbs
B. 15–25 lbs
C. 25–35 lbs
D. 40–50 lbs
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The recommended weight gain for normal pre-pregnancy BMI is 25–35 lbs.
A 2-year-old is drinking four 8-oz bottles of milk per day. What risk is the nurse MOST concerned about?
A. Vitamin D toxicity
B. Iron-deficiency anemia
C. Dehydration
D. Excessive protein intake
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Excess milk intake displaces iron-rich foods → risk of iron-deficiency anemia in toddlers.
. A client wants to improve overall wellness. Which recommendation is MOST appropriate?
A. Set unrealistic goals to improve motivation
B. Make small, sustainable lifestyle changes
C. Follow strict diet rules
D. Compare progress with others
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Small, achievable steps support long-term behavior change and improved wellness.
When the concentration of solutes in the blood becomes too high (indicating low water volume), the _________ in the brain triggers the thirst sensation, prompting the individual to drink.
hypothalamus
protein sensors that detect blood temp
A nurse explains that antioxidants protect the body by:
A. Killing pathogens directly
B. Preventing the formation of all free radicals
C. Donating electrons to stabilize free radicals
D. Increasing the body’s metabolic rate
c.
Antioxidants work by donating electrons, neutralizing free radicals so they no longer cause cellular damage.
A patient taking isoniazid (INH) for tuberculosis is at risk for deficiency in which vitamin?
A. Folate
B. Pyridoxine (B6)
C. Vitamin D
D. Vitamin E
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: INH interferes with B6 metabolism, causing deficiency unless supplemented.
A client with low potassium (K⁺) may exhibit which symptom?
A. Flushed skin
B. Cardiac arrhythmias
C. Elevated blood pressure
D. Increased reflexes
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Hypokalemia can cause dangerous cardiac dysrhythmias due to altered electrical conduction.
A nurse is educating a client on factors that increase BMR. Which factor should be included?
A. Aging
B. Starvation
C. Fever
D. Low thyroid hormone levels
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Fever raises metabolic rate. Aging, starvation, and hypothyroidism lower it.
Which nutrient is MOST important for muscle building and repair after exercise?
A. Carbohydrates
B. Fat
C. Water
D. Protein
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Protein supports muscle recovery and growth.
A pregnant client reports craving and eating non-food substances like clay. This condition is known as:
A. Preeclampsia
B. Pica
C. Morning sickness
D. Hyperemesis gravidarum
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Pica is the craving for and ingestion of non-food items.
A school-aged child’s BMI places them in the 90th percentile. This is classified as:
A. Normal weight
B. Underweight
C. Overweight
D. Obesity
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Overweight = 85th–94th percentile
Obesity = ≥95th percentile
The nurse is teaching about the components of holistic health. Which is included?
A. Only physical and nutritional health
B. Physical, mental, emotional, and social health
C. Only behaviors that prevent disease
D. Genetic factors only
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Holistic wellness includes physical, emotional, social, mental, and sometimes spiritual dimensions.
what are symptoms of hyponatremia?
Muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and shock.
A client with a history of smoking asks how antioxidants benefit health. Which response by the nurse is best?
A. “They repair all DNA damage caused by smoking.”
B. “They reduce oxidative stress that can occur at higher rates in smokers.”
C. “They keep your blood pressure from increasing.”
D. “They act like antibiotics in the body.”
Correct Answer: B
✔ Rationale: Smoking increases oxidative stress; antioxidants help minimize free radical damage.
The nurse knows that folate requirements increase during pregnancy because folate:
A. Prevents gestational diabetes
B. Supports neural tube development
C. Increases fetal bone density
D. Regulates maternal blood pressure
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Adequate folate prevents neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
Which patient is at highest risk for hyponatremia?
A. A marathon runner drinking only water during the race
B. A patient taking potassium-sparing diuretics
C. A client with decreased water intake
D. An older adult using salt substitutes
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Excessive water intake without electrolyte replacement dilutes sodium → hyponatremia.
A client wants to lose weight. Which recommendation is most appropriate?
A. Cut calories below 800 kcal/day
B. Increase physical activity and reduce caloric intake moderately
C. Avoid all carbohydrates
D. Take herbal weight-loss supplements
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Balanced, sustainable calorie reduction and exercise is evidence-based and safe.
A nurse teaches hydration guidelines for athletes. Which statement indicates understanding?
A. “If I’m thirsty, I’ve already begun to dehydrate.”
B. “Thirst is always a reliable guide to hydration status.”
C. “Dehydration cannot affect performance until after 4 hours of exercise.”
D. “Water is not needed during exercise shorter than 10 minutes.”
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Thirst often appears after dehydration begins.
A nurse is providing nutrition education to a breastfeeding mother. Which statement indicates understanding?
A. “I need more calories than I did during pregnancy.”
B. “My fluid intake does not affect milk supply.”
C. “I should stop breastfeeding if I get a cold.”
D. “Breastmilk does not change during a feeding.”
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Lactation increases energy needs more than pregnancy (~330–400 extra kcal/day).
A nurse teaches adolescents that which nutrient is essential for peak bone mass?
A. Vitamin A
B. Calcium
C. Sodium
D. Vitamin C
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Calcium intake during adolescence supports peak bone mass formation.
The nurse knows that a major barrier to lifestyle change is:
A. High self-efficacy
B. Access to community resources
C. Lack of social support
D. Personal motivation
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Social support strongly influences a person’s ability to sustain healthy behaviors.
what are symptoms of hypernatremia?
High blood pressure (hypertension), fluid retention (edema), and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Which vitamin is considered a fat-soluble antioxidant?
A. Vitamin C
B. Vitamin B12
C. Vitamin E
D. Folate
Correct Answer: C
✔ Rationale: Vitamin E is the major fat-soluble antioxidant in cell membranes.
Which vitamin deficiency causes macrocytic (megaloblastic) anemia?
A. Vitamin K
B. Vitamin B12
C. Vitamin D
D. Vitamin E
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: B12 or folate deficiencies cause large, immature RBCs (macrocytic anemia).
A nurse teaches that antidiuretic hormone (ADH) works by:
A. Increasing sodium excretion
B. Stimulating the kidneys to retain water
C. Increasing thirst only
D. Blocking water absorption in the kidneys
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: ADH signals the kidneys to reabsorb water, reducing urine output.
Which hormone is primarily responsible for increasing appetite?
A. Leptin
B. Insulin
C. Ghrelin
D. Cortisol
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ghrelin (released in the stomach) stimulates hunger.
A patient exercising vigorously for more than 1 hour should replace which electrolytes?
A. Sodium and potassium
B. Calcium and iron
C. Magnesium and zinc
D. Fluoride and selenium
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Sweat losses include significant sodium and some potassium.
Which nutrient has the greatest increase in requirement during pregnancy?
A. Protein
B. Vitamin C
C. Iron
D. Calcium
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Iron needs nearly double in pregnancy to support increased maternal blood volume and fetal needs.
Which factor increases nutrient needs during adolescence?
A. Slower growth rate
B. Reduced appetite
C. Increased metabolic demands due to rapid growth
D. Decreased physical activity
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Adolescents experience rapid growth and hormonal changes, increasing nutrient requirements.
A client wants to begin eating healthier. Which intervention demonstrates SMART goal-setting?
A. “I will stop eating junk food forever.”
B. “I will lose weight fast by skipping meals.”
C. “I will eat a vegetable with dinner 5 days a week.”
D. “I want to be healthier.”
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
This hormone signals the kidneys to reabsorb more water back into the bloodstream, reducing the amount of water lost in urine. When water levels are low, the pituitary gland releases what hormone?
Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)
A nurse is teaching a patient about vitamin C. Which food indicates correct understanding?
A. Whole milk
B. Citrus fruits
C. Brown rice
D. Eggs
Correct Answer: B
✔ Rationale: Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), strawberries, and peppers are high in vitamin C.
The nurse is teaching a patient about fat-soluble vitamins. Which statement indicates a need for further teaching?
A. “I should take vitamin A with a meal that contains some fat.”
B. “These vitamins can be stored in the liver.”
C. “It’s unlikely that too much vitamin D could harm me.”
D. “Vitamin K helps with blood clotting.”
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Fat-soluble vitamins can cause toxicity because they are stored, especially Vitamins A & D.
A client is found to have hypernatremia. Which finding is most consistent with this?
A. Confusion and excessive thirst
B. Muscle cramps and diarrhea
C. Weak pulse and sweating
D. Bradycardia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: High sodium causes cellular dehydration → thirst, confusion, irritability.
A nurse is reviewing the health risks of obesity. Which condition is MOST associated with excess body fat?
A. Iron-deficiency anemia
B. Type 2 diabetes
C. Osteoporosis
D. Low blood pressure
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Obesity significantly increases the risk for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Which recommendation supports healthy pre-exercise nutrition?
A. Eat a high-fat meal 30 minutes before exercise
B. Consume a carbohydrate-rich meal 1–4 hours before exercise
C. Drink only electrolyte beverages
D. Avoid eating anything before exercise
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Carbohydrates provide accessible energy; high-fat meals slow digestion.
A nurse is reviewing foods a pregnant client should AVOID. Which food requires further teaching?
A. Deli meats
B. Soft unpasteurized cheeses
C. Sushi made with raw fish
D. Fresh fruits and vegetables
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Fresh produce is safe when washed; the others carry risks of Listeria or mercury.
A parent asks when infants can safely switch to low-fat milk. The nurse responds:
A. “At 6 months old.”
B. “At 12 months old.”
C. “At 2 years old.”
D. “Not until age 10.”
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Children should receive whole milk until age 2, when brain growth slows and low-fat milk is appropriate.
The nurse is counseling a sedentary client. Which statement demonstrates readiness for change?
A. “I know I should exercise, but I’m too busy.”
B. “I might start walking soon.”
C. “I bought walking shoes and plan to walk 20 minutes after dinner.”
D. “Exercise is pointless for me.”
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: This indicates the action stage of behavior change and readiness to implement healthy behaviors.
what is the average water output?
what is the AI( average intake) for water?
water gained from solid foods?
output- 2.5L
intake- 2.7
solid food- 700ML
Which mineral functions as part of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD)?
A. Sodium
B. Iron
C. Selenium
D. Zinc
Correct Answer: D
✔ Rationale: Zinc and copper are key components of SOD. Selenium is part of glutathione peroxidase.
A patient has bleeding gums, poor wound healing, and fragile capillaries. Which vitamin deficiency does the nurse suspect?
A. Vitamin C
B. Vitamin A
C. Vitamin K
D. Vitamin B2
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy—characterized by bleeding gums and poor collagen formation.
Select all that apply: Which foods are good sources of potassium?
A. Bananas
B. Tomatoes
C. White rice
D. Baked potatoes
E. Spinach
Correct Answers: A, B, D, E
Rationale: Potassium-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, potatoes, and leafy greens.
A client has a BMI of 32 kg/m². The nurse correctly interprets this as:
A. Normal weight
B. Overweight
C. Obesity (Class I)
D. Obesity (Class III)
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Overweight: 25–29.9
Obesity Class I: 30–34.9
A nurse plans post-exercise education. Optimal recovery nutrition should include:
A. Only protein
B. Only water
C. Carbohydrates and protein within 30–60 minutes
D. High-fat foods to slow digestion
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Carbs restore glycogen; protein repairs muscle. Best consumed shortly after exercise.
The nurse is caring for a newborn exclusively breastfed. What vitamin supplement is recommended for all infants?
A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin D
C. Vitamin K
D. Vitamin E
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Breastmilk is low in vitamin D; infants require supplementation starting soon after birth.
A nurse caring for an older adult emphasizes increasing protein intake because:
A. Protein decreases kidney function
B. Older adults have increased muscle breakdown (sarcopenia)
C. Protein increases cholesterol dramatically
D. Older adults absorb protein more efficiently
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sarcopenia increases protein needs to preserve muscle mass and strength.
A client reports significant stress. Which nutrition recommendation supports improved coping?
A. Increase caffeine for more energy
B. Skip meals when stressed
C. Eat balanced meals at regular intervals
D. Increase sugar intake for quick energy
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Balanced meals help stabilize blood sugar and support mood and stress regulation.
This system is activated when blood volume or blood pressure drops. what system?
___________, a hormone, signals the kidneys to retain more sodium, and since water follows sodium, this helps increase water retention and restore blood volume.
1- Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS)
2-aldosterone
A client reports taking large doses of antioxidant supplements “to prevent cancer.” Which nursing action is BEST?
A. Encourage continuing supplements
B. Suggest replacing supplements with high-fat foods
C. Explain that high-dose supplements may increase cancer risk
D. Recommend doubling the dose for effectiveness
Correct Answer: C
✔ Rationale: Research shows high doses (especially vitamin E or beta-carotene in smokers) may increase cancer risk.
Select all that apply: Which foods are rich in vitamin K?
A. Spinach
B. Broccoli
C. Oranges
D. Fortified milk
E. Kale
Correct Answers: A, B, E
Rationale: Vitamin K is abundant in dark leafy greens.
A nurse caring for a patient with heart failure advises limiting sodium intake. Which statement indicates correct understanding?
A. “I will avoid canned soups and processed snacks.”
B. “I should use sea salt instead of regular salt.”
C. “Salt substitutes have no sodium at all.”
D. “I can eat unlimited deli meats if I avoid table salt.”
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Processed foods are major sodium sources. Sea salt has similar sodium content; deli meats are high in sodium.
Select all that apply: Which strategies support healthy, long-term weight loss?
A. Eating high-fiber foods
B. Drinking water before meals
C. Using severe caloric restriction
D. Increasing daily physical activity
E. Skipping breakfast
Correct Answers: A, B, D
Rationale: Sustainable approaches include fiber intake, hydration, and exercise. Severe restriction and skipping meals are ineffective or harmful.
Select all that apply: Which symptoms indicate heat exhaustion?
A. Heavy sweating
B. Cool, clammy skin
C. Very low blood pressure
D. Mental confusion
E. Muscle cramps
Correct Answers: A, B, E
Rationale:
Heat exhaustion → sweating, pale cool skin, cramps, fatigue
Confusion & very low BP are more severe and may indicate heat stroke, a medical emergency.
Select all that apply: Which signs indicate the infant is ready for solid foods?
A. Can sit with support
B. Tongue-thrust reflex has diminished
C. Age 6 months
D. Has doubled birth weight
E. Can drink from a cup independently
Correct Answers: A, B, C, D
Rationale: Solids are introduced around 6 months when developmental and physical readiness is present. Cup drinking is not required.
Select all that apply: Which factors place older adults at risk for malnutrition?
A. Decreased appetite
B. Social isolation
C. Increased sense of taste and smell
D. Difficulty chewing or swallowing
E. Fixed income
Correct Answers: A, B, D, E
Rationale: Physiologic and social changes increase malnutrition risk in older adults. Taste/smell typically decline, not increase.
Which behavior MOST supports long-term health and wellness?
A. Using fad diets to lose weight quickly
B. Relying only on supplements for nutrients
C. Eating a varied diet rich in whole foods
D. Eliminating all carbohydrates
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A balanced diet including whole foods provides essential nutrients and promotes optimal health.
what are your primary electrolytes?
sodium- Extracellular Fluid (Outside the cells)
potassium -Intracellular Fluid (Inside the cells)
chloride -Extracellular Fluid (Outside the cells)
Select all that apply: Which nutrients act as antioxidants in the human body?
A. Vitamin C
B. Vitamin E
C. Beta-carotene
D. Vitamin K
E. Selenium
Correct Answers: A, B, C, E
✔ Rationale: Vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and selenium all help neutralize free radicals.
A patient with a strict vegan diet is most at risk for deficiency in which vitamin?
A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin B12
C. Vitamin C
D. Vitamin B6
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Vitamin B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products; vegans need fortified foods or supplements.
A patient asks why athletes need sports drinks. The nurse responds:
A. “They prevent all dehydration.”
B. “They replace fluids and electrolytes lost through sweat.”
C. “They act as energy boosters to build muscle.”
D. “They eliminate the need for water intake.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sports drinks supply sodium and potassium lost in prolonged or intense exercise.
A nurse is teaching about the thermic effect of food (TEF). Which explanation is correct?
A. “It refers to the calories needed to maintain organ function at rest.”
B. “It is the energy used to digest, absorb, and process nutrients.”
C. “It is the energy spent during vigorous exercise.”
D. “It describes heat loss through sweating.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: TEF accounts for ~10% of energy spent digesting and metabolizing food.
A nurse teaches that fat is the major energy source during:
A. High-intensity sprints
B. Rest and low-intensity exercise
C. Weightlifting
D. Anaerobic exercise
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Fat fuels low-intensity, long-duration activity and rest.
A nurse teaches parents to avoid giving honey to infants because:
A. It may cause diarrhea
B. It may damage developing teeth
C. It may contain Clostridium botulinum spores
D. It is too high in calories
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Honey can cause infant botulism and should not be given before 12 months.
A nurse teaches that constipation in older adults is often related to:
A. High water intake
B. Low fiber intake and decreased physical activity
C. Excessive potassium
D. Overproduction of digestive enzymes
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Older adults often have reduced fiber intake and less mobility, contributing to constipation.
A nurse encourages a client to practice mindfulness eating. This means:
A. Eating very quickly while multitasking
B. Ignoring hunger cues
C. Paying attention to hunger, fullness, and the eating experience
D. Counting calories at each meal
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Mindful eating focuses on awareness of internal cues and the sensory experience of eating.
what are 2 different types of output?
insensible water loss(unaware)- exhalation
sensible water loss(aware)- urine
A patient receiving parenteral nutrition is deficient in selenium. Which complication could this lead to?
A. Increased bleeding
B. Thyroid dysfunction
C. Increased oxidative damage
D. Hyperglycemia
Correct Answer: C
✔ Rationale: Selenium is required for glutathione peroxidase, a major antioxidant enzyme.
A nurse caring for a patient with osteoporosis emphasizes the importance of which two nutrients?
A. Vitamin D and calcium
B. Vitamin A and folate
C. Vitamin C and iron
D. Vitamin E and potassium
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Vitamin D aids calcium absorption, both essential for bone health.
Fluid balance is regulated by the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS). Aldosterone increases:
A. Sodium excretion
B. Potassium retention
C. Sodium retention and water retention
D. Water excretion
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Aldosterone signals kidneys to retain sodium → water follows → increased fluid volume.
A patient asks why abdominal (central) obesity is dangerous. The nurse’s BEST response is:
A. “It makes exercise more uncomfortable.”
B. “Fat stored around the hips protects the spine.”
C. “Central fat is metabolically active and raises the risk for heart disease.”
D. “It lowers cholesterol levels.”
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Visceral fat increases inflammation, insulin resistance, and risk for cardiovascular disease.
A patient wants to use protein supplements to enhance performance. The nurse’s BEST response is:
A. “Protein supplements are required for muscle building.”
B. “Extra protein is stored as muscle automatically.”
C. “Most athletes meet protein needs through food alone.”
D. “High-protein diets prevent dehydration.”
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Most athletes can meet protein needs through balanced meals; supplements are rarely necessary.
A pregnant client complains of heartburn. Which recommendation is appropriate?
A. Eat large meals
B. Lie down immediately after eating
C. Avoid spicy foods and eat small, frequent meals
D. Drink fluids only at mealtimes
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Small meals and avoiding trigger foods help reduce pregnancy-related heartburn.
A nurse is teaching healthy eating strategies for children. Which recommendation is appropriate?
A. Restrict all snacks
B. Force children to finish all food served
C. Offer repeated exposure to new foods without pressure
D. Reward children with sweets for good behavior
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Repeated, pressure-free exposure helps children accept new foods and supports healthy eating habits.
Which factor is MOST influential in sustaining healthy lifestyle habits?
A. Short-term motivation
B. External pressure from others
C. Intrinsic motivation and personal values
D. Following strict diet rules
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Long-term lifestyle change is strongly tied to internal motivation and alignment with personal values.