A 14-month-old child presented with vomiting, diarrhea, failure to thrive, listlessness, hyperirritability, and seizures. His hemoglobin is 6 gm/dl, blood film shows hypochromic microcytic anemia, and he was fed goat's milk from birth. Of the following, the MOST likely cause of his condition is deficiency of

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option D) B12 deficiency. This child's presentation of vomiting, diarrhea, failure to thrive, anemia, and neurological symptoms is indicative of megaloblastic anemia, which is commonly caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA synthesis and neurological function, explaining the symptoms seen in this child. Option A) Thiamine (B1) deficiency typically presents with neurological symptoms like confusion and muscle weakness, not the symptoms seen in this case. Option B) Riboflavin (B2) deficiency can cause skin and mucous membrane changes, not the severe systemic symptoms this child is experiencing. Option C) Niacin (B3) deficiency leads to pellagra, characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia, which do not match this child's presentation. Educationally, it's crucial for healthcare providers to recognize the clinical manifestations of various vitamin deficiencies in pediatric patients to provide timely and appropriate intervention. This case highlights the importance of considering nutritional factors in assessing children with gastrointestinal and neurological manifestations, guiding healthcare professionals in delivering comprehensive care to pediatric patients.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question on pediatric gastrointestinal disorders, the correct answer is C) Haemophilus influenzae. Haemophilus influenzae is not typically implicated in causing mastitis. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common organism responsible for mastitis in breastfeeding mothers. Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae are both gram-negative bacteria that can cause mastitis, especially in the context of underlying breast pathology or compromised immune function. From an educational standpoint, understanding the different organisms that can cause mastitis is crucial for healthcare providers working with breastfeeding mothers and infants. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of mastitis, including the infectious agents involved, is essential for prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications and support successful breastfeeding. Nurses and other healthcare professionals must be able to differentiate between the various causes of mastitis to provide appropriate care and support lactating mothers effectively.