ATI RN
Chapter 14 Nutrition and Fluid Balance Questions
Question 1 of 5
An elderly patient presents with confusion, muscle cramps, and a serum sodium level of 118 mEq/L. What is the most appropriate treatment plan?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Provide hypertonic saline slowly. In this scenario, the patient has hyponatremia (low serum sodium level), which can lead to neurological symptoms like confusion and muscle cramps. The treatment goal is to increase sodium levels gradually to avoid complications such as osmotic demyelination syndrome. Hypertonic saline is the appropriate choice as it will raise sodium levels effectively without causing rapid shifts that can be harmful. Isotonic saline (choice A) may not provide enough sodium correction, fluid restriction (choice B) may worsen symptoms, and encouraging high-sodium foods (choice D) may not be sufficient or controlled.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse performing a nutritional assessment determines BMI of a 5-foot 11-inch male patient who weighs 180 pounds. What would be the BMI for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: BMI = weight (kg) / height (m²). 180 lb = 81.65 kg, 5'11" = 1.803 m. 81.65 / (1.803²) ≈ 25.1.
Question 3 of 5
While reviewing an adult patients chart, a nurse notes average daily intake of fluids as 2,000 mL/day. What will the nurse do based on this information?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: 2,000 mL/day is within the normal adult fluid intake range (1,500-2,500 mL), so no change is needed.
Question 4 of 5
A healthy, active 72-year-old woman asks a nurse if it is safe to take dietary supplements and, if so, what should be taken? What would the nurse tell her?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Older adults often need calcium, vitamin D (bone health), and B12 (absorption decreases with age).
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is feeding a patient. Which of the following statements would help a person maintain dignity while being fed?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Offering choice respects the patient's autonomy and dignity.