Nutritional Principles in Nursing Q&A with
Rationale | Rasmussen University
1. A nurse is caring for a patient who has a large pressure ulcer. Which nutrient is most
important for the nurse to emphasize to promote wound healing?
A. Vitamin K
B. Protein
C. Fat
D. Simple Carbohydrates
Answer: B
Rationale: Protein is essential for the repair and maintenance of body tissues, making it
critical for wound healing. Inadequate protein intake can delay the healing process and
weaken the immune system. The nurse should ensure the patient consumes enough high-
quality protein to support collagen synthesis and tissue regeneration.
2. A client with hypertension is starting the DASH diet. Which of the following instructions
should the nurse include?
A. Increase intake of processed meats for protein.
B. Limit intake of fruits and vegetables to two servings.
C. Avoid all forms of dairy products.
,D. Consume foods high in potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
Answer: D
Rationale: The DASH diet focuses on reducing sodium intake while increasing nutrients
like potassium, calcium, and magnesium that help lower blood pressure. These minerals
work together to improve vascular tone and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The
nurse should encourage the patient to eat plenty of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and
low-fat dairy.
3. Which of the following laboratory values is the best indicator of a patient’s long-term
nutritional status regarding protein?
A. Serum Albumin
B. Prealbumin
C. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
D. Creatinine
Answer: A
Rationale: Serum albumin has a long half-life of approximately 20 days, making it a better
indicator of long-term nutritional status. While prealbumin is more sensitive to acute
changes due to its shorter half-life, albumin reflects chronic protein depletion. It is
important to note that albumin levels can also be influenced by hydration status and
inflammation.
, 4. A nurse is teaching a pregnant woman about preventing neural tube defects. Which
supplement is most important for the client to take?
A. Vitamin D
B. Vitamin B12
C. Folic Acid
D. Calcium
Answer: C
Rationale: Folic acid is crucial during the early stages of pregnancy to prevent neural tube
defects like spina bifida. Women of childbearing age are often encouraged to take 400 to
800 mcg of folic acid daily. This nutrient is essential for DNA synthesis and the proper
development of the fetal nervous system.
5. A patient is diagnosed with Celiac disease. Which food should the nurse instruct the
patient to avoid?
A. Rice
B. Barley
C. Quinoa
D. Corn
Answer: B