One of the most common factors that compromise the vitamin D status of older adults, particularly those living in assisted living communities is _____.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: lack of exposure to sunlight.' Older adults, especially those in assisted living communities, are at risk of vitamin D deficiency due to spending most of their time indoors, which reduces their exposure to sunlight. Sunlight is essential for the body to produce vitamin D. Choices A, B, and C are less likely to be major factors in compromising vitamin D status. While a decreased intake of fruits and vegetables and lack of physical activity can impact overall health, they are not as directly related to vitamin D status. Malabsorption due to atrophic gastritis may affect the absorption of certain nutrients, but vitamin D synthesis primarily depends on sunlight exposure.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Low levels of HDL cholesterol are a strong predictor of coronary heart disease (CHD) risk because HDL helps to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Choice A is incorrect because low HDL levels are not associated with being underweight but rather with increased CHD risk. Choice B is incorrect as low HDL levels are not more prevalent in males but can affect both genders. Choice D is incorrect as low levels of HDL are indeed a good predictor of CHD risk.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The statement is TRUE. Sickle cell disease is caused by a genetic mutation in the hemoglobin gene, leading to an abnormal amino acid sequence. This results in the production of abnormal hemoglobin molecules, causing red blood cells to become sickle-shaped. This inherited condition is a classic example of a genetic error affecting the amino acid sequence, making choice A the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately reflect the nature of sickle cell disease.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Marasmus. Marasmus is a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) that leads to muscle wasting, hanging skin, delayed growth, and changes in saliva. These symptoms are commonly seen in vulnerable populations such as children, homeless individuals, older adults, and substance abusers. Kwashiorkor, on the other hand, is characterized by edema, a distended belly, and skin lesions. Anemia is a condition characterized by a low red blood cell count, leading to fatigue and weakness. Noma is a severe infection affecting the face, particularly the mouth and jaw area.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Handgrip strength is a reliable test to assess muscle function and detect muscle weakness due to wasting. It is often used to identify conditions like sarcopenia in clinical settings. Options A, B, and D are not suitable for evaluating muscle weakness. Food intake recall does not directly measure muscle function, skinfold thickness assesses body fat but not muscle strength, and red blood cell levels are unrelated to muscle wasting.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is A and B. Switching to more nutrient-dense foods can help Miguel feel full despite eating enough calories. Nutrient-dense foods provide essential nutrients and are more satisfying. Drinking adequate water is also crucial for overall health and can help with feelings of fullness. Choice D is incorrect because while fat can contribute to satiety, it should be consumed in balance with other nutrients. Consuming foods with high fat content excessively may lead to other health issues and does not address the underlying problem of feeling constantly hungry despite eating.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Emulsify fats in the small intestine. Bile emulsifies fats in the small intestine, breaking them down into smaller droplets that can be more easily digested by enzymes like lipase. Choice A is incorrect as fats are not digested in the stomach but rather in the small intestine. Choice C is incorrect as fats are transported through the lymphatic system instead of the circulatory system. Choice D is incorrect as fats are broken down into smaller components through emulsification, not splitting.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Metabolic control is crucial for women with gestational diabetes to prevent the development of macrosomia, which is characterized by an abnormally large baby. This condition poses risks such as birth injuries and necessitates careful management of blood sugar levels. Microsomia is not a known term related to this context. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are not conditions the infant would develop as a result of gestational diabetes in the mother.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Osmotic pressure is the force that drives water movement across cell membranes due to the presence of electrolytes, helping to balance fluid levels in the body. Choice A, 'energy,' is incorrect as electrolytes do not directly create energy. Choice B, 'active transport,' refers to the movement of molecules across a cell membrane requiring energy, not the movement of water. Choice C, 'passive diffusion,' is the process by which substances move from an area of higher concentration to lower concentration, not related to the movement of water following electrolytes.