NUR 1172/NUR1172 Exam 1 V3 |
Nutritional Principles in Nursing Q&A with
Rationale | Rasmussen University
1. What is the primary function of carbohydrates in the human body?
A. To build and repair muscle tissues
B. To provide the body’s main source of energy
C. To act as the primary structural component of cell membranes
D. To serve as the main storage site for fat-soluble vitamins
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred and most efficient source of
fuel, especially for the brain and central nervous system. They are broken down into
glucose, which provides immediate energy for cellular processes. While proteins and fats
can provide energy, the body prioritizes carbohydrates to spare protein for tissue building.
2. Which of the following is considered a complete protein source?
A. Eggs
B. Black beans
C. Whole grain bread
D. Peanut butter
,Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Complete proteins contain all nine essential amino acids that the
body cannot produce on its own. Animal-based products like eggs, dairy, and meat are
high-quality complete proteins. Plant-based sources usually lack one or more essential
amino acids and must be combined to form a complete profile.
3. A deficiency in which vitamin is most closely associated with the development of scurvy?
A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin D
C. Vitamin C
D. Vitamin K
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, which maintains
the integrity of connective tissues and skin. Scurvy is the clinical manifestation of severe
Vitamin C deficiency, characterized by bleeding gums and poor wound healing. Nurses
should encourage intake of citrus fruits and vegetables to prevent this condition.
4. Which nutrient is critical for the prevention of neural tube defects in a developing fetus?
A. Folic Acid
B. Calcium
C. Iron
, D. Vitamin E
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Folic acid, or folate, plays a vital role in DNA synthesis and the
formation of the neural tube during early pregnancy. Adequate intake prior to and during
the first trimester significantly reduces the risk of spina bifida. Pregnant women are
typically advised to take a supplement to ensure they meet the increased requirements.
5. What is the recommended Body Mass Index (BMI) range for a healthy adult?
A. 15.0 to 18.4
B. 18.5 to 24.9
C. 25.0 to 29.9
D. 30.0 or higher
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is classified as the healthy weight range
for most adults. Values below this range are considered underweight, while values above
25 indicate overweight or obesity. BMI is a screening tool used by healthcare providers to
assess weight-related health risks.
6. Which mineral is primarily responsible for maintaining fluid balance and nerve impulse
transmission?
A. Magnesium
Nutritional Principles in Nursing Q&A with
Rationale | Rasmussen University
1. What is the primary function of carbohydrates in the human body?
A. To build and repair muscle tissues
B. To provide the body’s main source of energy
C. To act as the primary structural component of cell membranes
D. To serve as the main storage site for fat-soluble vitamins
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred and most efficient source of
fuel, especially for the brain and central nervous system. They are broken down into
glucose, which provides immediate energy for cellular processes. While proteins and fats
can provide energy, the body prioritizes carbohydrates to spare protein for tissue building.
2. Which of the following is considered a complete protein source?
A. Eggs
B. Black beans
C. Whole grain bread
D. Peanut butter
,Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Complete proteins contain all nine essential amino acids that the
body cannot produce on its own. Animal-based products like eggs, dairy, and meat are
high-quality complete proteins. Plant-based sources usually lack one or more essential
amino acids and must be combined to form a complete profile.
3. A deficiency in which vitamin is most closely associated with the development of scurvy?
A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin D
C. Vitamin C
D. Vitamin K
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, which maintains
the integrity of connective tissues and skin. Scurvy is the clinical manifestation of severe
Vitamin C deficiency, characterized by bleeding gums and poor wound healing. Nurses
should encourage intake of citrus fruits and vegetables to prevent this condition.
4. Which nutrient is critical for the prevention of neural tube defects in a developing fetus?
A. Folic Acid
B. Calcium
C. Iron
, D. Vitamin E
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Folic acid, or folate, plays a vital role in DNA synthesis and the
formation of the neural tube during early pregnancy. Adequate intake prior to and during
the first trimester significantly reduces the risk of spina bifida. Pregnant women are
typically advised to take a supplement to ensure they meet the increased requirements.
5. What is the recommended Body Mass Index (BMI) range for a healthy adult?
A. 15.0 to 18.4
B. 18.5 to 24.9
C. 25.0 to 29.9
D. 30.0 or higher
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is classified as the healthy weight range
for most adults. Values below this range are considered underweight, while values above
25 indicate overweight or obesity. BMI is a screening tool used by healthcare providers to
assess weight-related health risks.
6. Which mineral is primarily responsible for maintaining fluid balance and nerve impulse
transmission?
A. Magnesium
