A nurse is planning dietary teaching for a client who adheres to a vegan diet. The nurse should identify that the client is at greatest risk for which of the following nutrient deficiencies?
Omega-3 fatty acids
Magnesium
Potassium
Vitamin A
The Correct Answer is A
Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are mainly found in fatty fish. Since vegans avoid animal products, they may not consume adequate amounts of EPA and DHA. Plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, provide a different type of omega-3 called
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which can be converted to EPA and DHA in the body to some extent. However, this conversion is not very efficient, and the amount of EPA and DHA obtained from plant-based sources may be insufficient to meet the body's needs. Therefore, vegan individuals are at greater risk of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.
Magnesium, potassium, and vitamin A deficiencies are not specifically associated with a vegan diet. These nutrients can be obtained from various plant-based sources. Magnesium can be found in foods such as legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables.
Potassium is abundant in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
Vitamin A can be obtained from plant-based sources like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and other dark leafy greens. However, it is important for individuals following a vegan diet to ensure they consume a varied and balanced diet to meet their nutritional needs for these and other essential nutrients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Canola oil: Canola oil is a healthier option when it comes to cooking oils. It is low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. Monounsaturated fats can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels when used in place of saturated fats. Canola oil is a versatile oil that can be used for various cooking methods, including sautéing, baking, and grilling.
Palm oil: Palm oil is high in saturated fat and should be limited or avoided when trying to decrease saturated fats in the diet. High intake of saturated fats can raise LDL cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Peanut oil: Peanut oil is another good option for cooking. It is low in saturated fat and contains a good amount of monounsaturated fat. Using peanut oil in moderation can be a healthier choice compared to oils high in saturated fat.
Stick margarine: Stick margarine is not recommended when trying to decrease saturated fats in the diet. Most stick margarines are high in trans fats, which are even more detrimental to heart health than saturated fats. Trans fats can increase LDL cholesterol levels and decrease HDL (good) cholesterol levels, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
BMI (body mass index) of 18.5: BMI is a measure of body fat based on an individual's weight and height. A BMI of 18.5 is within the normal range and indicates that the client's nutritional status has improved. An increase in BMI suggests successful repletion of body stores and improved overall health.
Hgb (hemoglobin) of 10 g/dL: Hemoglobin level is an indicator of the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. While a hemoglobin level of 10 g/dL is within the normal range for an adult, it does not specifically indicate a therapeutic response to TPN. However, it can be associated with improved nutritional status.
Temperature of 38.4° C (101.1 F): An elevated temperature indicates the presence of a fever, which is not a direct therapeutic response to TPN but may be associated with an underlying infection or inflammation.
BUN (blood urea nitrogen) of 25 mg/dL: BUN is a measure of kidney function and protein metabolism. An elevated BUN may indicate dehydration, impaired kidney function, or increased protein breakdown. It is not a specific therapeutic response to TPN.
While other factors, such as hemoglobin level, temperature, and BUN, can provide additional information about the client's overall health, the most specific indicator of a therapeutic response to TPN in a malnourished client is an improvement in BMI.
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