Breastfed infants are at risk for iron deficiency anemia and also deficiencies of what other nutrient?
Vitamin E
Vitamin C
Calcium
Vitamin D
The Correct Answer is D
A. Vitamin E is present in breast milk at levels generally sufficient for healthy, full-term infants. It functions as an antioxidant, protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage. Deficiency is very rare in breastfed infants unless there is a fat malabsorption disorder or premature birth with very low birth weight, as these conditions limit fat-soluble vitamin absorption. Therefore, routine supplementation is not required for most term infants.
B. Vitamin C is water-soluble and abundant in breast milk when the lactating mother has an adequate diet. It supports collagen formation, immune function, and antioxidant activity. Deficiency in breastfed infants is uncommon unless the mother’s intake is severely inadequate, which is rare in most populations.
C. Calcium is a critical mineral for bone and teeth development, and breast milk generally contains sufficient calcium to meet the needs of full-term infants. The infant’s calcium requirements are met even if maternal intake is moderate because the mammary gland actively regulates calcium content in milk. Deficiency in calcium is therefore not a common concern in healthy, exclusively breastfed infants.
D. Vitamin D is naturally present in breast milk in very low amounts, insufficient to meet the infant’s needs, particularly if sunlight exposure is limited. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralization. Without supplementation, breastfed infants are at risk for rickets, delayed bone growth, and skeletal deformities. Health organizations, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend daily vitamin D supplementation (typically 400 IU/day) for all exclusively breastfed infants.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While adequate sleep is important for overall health, 5–6 hours per night is generally insufficient for most adults. Chronic sleep deprivation can actually increase the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
B. Maintaining a healthy body weight and composition is a cornerstone of chronic disease prevention. Excess body fat, particularly visceral fat, is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. A balanced diet combined with regular physical activity supports healthy weight and reduces chronic disease risk.
C. Alcohol consumption is not universally protective and can increase the risk of liver disease, certain cancers, and cardiovascular problems. Health guidelines do not recommend two drinks per day for everyone.
D. Physical activity is important for chronic disease prevention; however, it is most effective when combined with maintaining a healthy body weight and overall healthy lifestyle habits. Simply being physically active without attention to diet and weight may not fully prevent chronic disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Clostridium perfringens is a common cause of foodborne illness, often associated with improperly stored cooked meats and gravies. While it causes many cases of mild gastrointestinal illness, it rarely leads to hospitalization or death.
B. Salmonella is responsible for the largest number of foodborne illnesses in the United States and causes the greatest number of hospitalizations and deaths among foodborne pathogens. It commonly contaminates eggs, poultry, meat, and sometimes produce. Infections can range from mild gastroenteritis to severe systemic illness, particularly in young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals, leading to hospitalization or, in severe cases, death.
C. Campylobacter is a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis and is often linked to undercooked poultry. While it can cause significant illness and sometimes complications like Guillain-Barré syndrome, it results in fewer hospitalizations and deaths than Salmonella.
D. Listeria monocytogenes causes severe illness in vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women, newborns, and the elderly, and can lead to miscarriage or meningitis. However, it is relatively rare compared to Salmonella and does not account for the greatest number of overall cases.
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