ATI RN Nutrition Exam Study Guide (2025 to 2026 Edition)
100 Real Exam Questions with Correct Answers & Expert
Explanations
This comprehensive ATI RN Nutrition Exam Pack for (2025 to 2026) contains 100 high-yield
multiple-choice questions which includes in the actual ATI RN Nutrition format.
Each question includes:
✔️ Correct answer marked clearly in blue
✔️ An explanation for concept mastery
✔️ Suitable for RN students, NCLEX prep, and ATI practice
Perfect for nursing students preparing for ATI Nutrition, NCLEX, or reviewing key nutrition
principles in clinical practice.
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ATI RN Nutrition Exam Study Guide (2025 to 2026 Edition)
1. Which of the following foods should a client with GERD avoid to reduce heartburn?
A. Orange juice
B. Peppermint
C. Coffee
D. Potatoes
Explanation:
Potatoes are bland and non-acidic, making them safe for GERD. Acidic (orange juice),
caffeinated (coffee), and minty (peppermint) foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter,
increasing acid reflux and discomfort.
2. Which food is the best source of magnesium?
A. Tuna
B. Tomatoes
C. Eggs
D. Oranges
Explanation:
Tuna is rich in magnesium, a mineral essential for nerve, muscle, and immune function.
Tomatoes, eggs, and oranges contain far less magnesium, making tuna the most nutrient-dense
option for replenishing magnesium stores.
3. A nurse is teaching a client taking iron supplements. Which food increases iron
absorption?
A. 1 cup milk
B. 1/2 cup orange juice
C. 1 cup coffee
D. 1/2 cup spinach
Explanation:
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) found in orange juice enhances iron absorption. Calcium (milk) and
tannins (coffee, spinach) inhibit absorption. This is crucial in treating or preventing
iron-deficiency anemia effectively with supplements.
4. Which nutrient prevents neural tube defects in a developing fetus?
A. Iron
B. Calcium
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C. Folic acid
D. Vitamin D
Explanation:
Folic acid supports proper neural tube development during early pregnancy. Adequate intake
before conception and during the first trimester significantly lowers the risk of neural tube
defects like spina bifida or anencephaly.
5. A client eats only meat and rice. What is the appropriate nurse response?
A. “You’re eating very well.”
B. “Your diet is varied but consider adding more fruits and vegetables.”
C. “You’re getting enough fiber.”
D. “Avoid rice to lower your carbs.”
Explanation:
While meat and rice provide protein and carbs, they lack fiber, vitamins, and minerals found in
fruits and vegetables. The nurse should encourage dietary diversity for a complete nutrient
profile and better health.
6. Which statement indicates a misunderstanding of gestational diabetes?
A. “My baby may weigh more than average.”
B. “This means I’ll have diabetes forever.”
C. “I’ll need to monitor my blood sugar.”
D. “My doctor may recommend insulin.”
Explanation:
Gestational diabetes often resolves after delivery. However, saying it’s permanent reflects a
misunderstanding. Clients should be reassured, while being educated about long-term risks like
developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
7. What’s a correct nursing action for continuous gastrostomy feeding?
A. Change feeding bag every 72 hr
B. Flush with 10 mL sterile water every shift
C. Keep head of bed at 15°
D. Flush with 30 mL of water every 4 hr
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Explanation:
Flushing the tube with 30 mL of water every 4 hours prevents clogs and keeps the tube patent.
Keeping the head of bed elevated to at least 30° also helps prevent aspiration.
8. A postpartum client saturates 4 pads in 1 hr. What should the nurse do first?
A. Check vital signs
B. Administer oxytocin
C. Palpate the uterine fundus
D. Notify the provider
Explanation:
Excessive bleeding may result from uterine atony. The nurse must assess the fundus
immediately to determine firmness and position. A boggy uterus requires prompt massage before
medications or provider notification.
9. Which food should be included in a client’s diet to increase iron absorption?
A. Milk
B. Tea
C. Orange slices
D. Whole grains
Explanation:
Orange slices provide vitamin C, which boosts non-heme iron absorption. Tea and milk contain
inhibitors like tannins and calcium. This is particularly important in clients with or at risk for
anemia.
10. Which of these is a complete protein?
A. Lentils
B. Peanut butter
C. Eggs
D. Whole wheat bread
Explanation:
Eggs contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein. Lentils, peanut
butter, and whole wheat are incomplete unless combined with complementary proteins for a full
amino acid profile.
11. A client has stomatitis due to chemotherapy. Which food should the nurse recommend?
A. Scrambled eggs
B. Tomato juice