A 10-month-old infant from rural area presented with pallor, irritability, inability to move his legs, and bleeding gums. The infant is on fresh cow's milk from birth. Of the following, the MOST likely cause of his condition is deficiency of

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is vitamin C (Option C). The infant is presenting with symptoms suggestive of scurvy, a condition caused by vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, and its deficiency can lead to poor wound healing, bleeding gums, anemia, and impaired bone development, which align with the symptoms exhibited by the infant. Option A (vitamin K) is incorrect because vitamin K deficiency typically presents with bleeding issues such as easy bruising or prolonged bleeding, but does not manifest with symptoms like irritability, pallor, and inability to move legs seen in this case. Option B (vitamin B12) deficiency can cause symptoms like anemia, neurological issues, and developmental delays, but it does not typically present with bleeding gums or the inability to move legs. Option D (copper) deficiency can lead to anemia and bone abnormalities, but it is not the primary cause of the symptoms exhibited by the infant in this case. Educationally, understanding pediatric nutritional deficiencies is crucial for healthcare professionals working with infants and children. Recognizing the specific symptoms of each deficiency and their implications is vital for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention to prevent long-term complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) 25-(OH)-D. Vitamin D status is best assessed by measuring the level of 25-(OH)-D, also known as calcidiol. This form of vitamin D is the major circulating form and reflects both dietary intake and synthesis in the skin. Measuring 25-(OH)-D provides a more accurate representation of overall vitamin D status compared to the other options. Option B) 1,25-(OH)2-D, also known as calcitriol, is the active form of vitamin D. While this form is important for regulating calcium and phosphorus levels, it is not the best measure of overall vitamin D status as its levels can be influenced by factors other than vitamin D status. Option C) 24,25-(OH)2-D is a less commonly measured form of vitamin D and is not typically used to assess overall vitamin D status. It has a more specific role in bone health and mineral metabolism. Option D) Serum phosphorus is not a direct measure of vitamin D status. Phosphorus levels can be affected by various factors unrelated to vitamin D, so it is not a reliable indicator of vitamin D status. In an educational context, understanding how to assess vitamin D status is crucial in pediatric care, as vitamin D plays a vital role in bone health, growth, and immune function in children. By knowing that 25-(OH)-D is the best measure of vitamin D status, healthcare providers can accurately diagnose and manage pediatric patients with vitamin D deficiency, ensuring optimal health outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is B) bran. Bran is a known inhibitor of nonheme iron absorption due to its high content of phytates and fibers, which can bind to iron and reduce its absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Option A) ascorbic acid is actually a promoter of nonheme iron absorption as it enhances the absorption of iron. Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, can help convert nonheme iron into a more absorbable form in the gut. Option C) meat and Option D) fish are sources of heme iron, which is a more readily absorbed form of iron compared to nonheme iron found in plant-based foods. Therefore, they are not inhibitors of nonheme iron absorption. In an educational context, understanding the factors that can influence iron absorption is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially when dealing with pediatric patients who may have specific dietary needs or gastrointestinal disorders affecting nutrient absorption. By knowing which foods can inhibit or promote iron absorption, healthcare providers can better advise patients on dietary strategies to optimize iron intake and prevent deficiencies.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pediatric nutrition, the adequate intake (AI) for total fat in a nine-month-old boy is typically around 50 grams per day. This is because fat is a crucial nutrient for infants and young children as it provides essential fatty acids necessary for brain development and overall growth. Additionally, fat also aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Option A) 10 gm/day is too low for a nine-month-old as it would not meet the energy and nutritional needs required for growth and development at this stage. Option B) 20 gm/day is also insufficient as it falls short of the recommended intake for a nine-month-old's growth and development. Option C) 30 gm/day is closer to the correct answer but still lower than the optimal fat intake required for a nine-month-old. It is important to understand the nutritional needs of infants and young children to ensure they receive adequate nourishment for their overall health and development. Educating healthcare professionals and caregivers on these guidelines is crucial to promoting optimal growth and preventing nutritional deficiencies in pediatric populations.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Zinc deficiency is a crucial concern in pediatric healthcare as it plays a vital role in growth, development, and immune function. In this question, the correct answer is D) increased risk for urinary tract infections. This is because zinc deficiency primarily affects the immune system and growth, but it is not directly linked to an increased risk for urinary tract infections. Option A) stunting is a common consequence of zinc deficiency as zinc is essential for growth and development. Option B) impaired immune function is also correct as zinc plays a critical role in immune response, and deficiency can weaken the immune system. Option C) increased risk for respiratory diseases is also associated with zinc deficiency as the mineral is needed for optimal respiratory function. Educationally, understanding the effects of zinc deficiency is crucial for pediatric nurses and healthcare professionals to provide adequate care for children. By recognizing the symptoms and consequences of zinc deficiency, healthcare providers can offer appropriate interventions and support to prevent complications associated with this nutritional deficiency.