HESI PN Nutrition Practice Exam

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: There are 16 essential minerals required for human nutrition. These minerals include calcium, potassium, iron, and others. Choice A (8) is incorrect as it underestimates the number of essential minerals. Choice B (12) is also incorrect as it does not encompass the full count of essential minerals. Choice D (20) is incorrect as it overestimates the number of essential minerals.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. An essential nutrient is a substance that is necessary for normal body functioning but cannot be synthesized in adequate amounts by the body, therefore it must be obtained from the diet. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because essential nutrients are not synthesized by the body, they are necessary for body functioning, and they are not typically stored in the body for long periods.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Absence of parasympathetic ganglion cells in a portion of the colon. Hirschsprung disease is a congenital condition characterized by the absence of nerve cells (ganglia) in parts of the colon. This absence leads to a lack of peristalsis in the affected segment, resulting in severe constipation and bowel obstruction. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A describes symptoms of diarrhea rather than a causative factor of Hirschsprung disease. Excessive peristaltic movement (choice B) is not a causative factor but rather the opposite, as Hirschsprung disease is associated with reduced peristalsis. Choice D, which refers to intussusception, is a different condition unrelated to Hirschsprung disease.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Limited range of motion in the hip, often noted as a limitation in abduction, is a common sign of congenital hip dysplasia. This limitation is due to the abnormal development of the hip joint, affecting its movement. Symmetrical hip movement (Choice A) is not a characteristic sign of congenital hip dysplasia. Swelling of the knees (Choice C) is not typically associated with this condition. Dislocated patella (Choice D) refers to a different anatomical structure and is not a common sign of congenital hip dysplasia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: Ensuring regular thyroid hormone replacement therapy is crucial for managing congenital hypothyroidism in children. This therapy supports normal growth and development by replacing the deficient thyroid hormones. Monitoring for signs of hyperactivity (Choice A) is not the primary management for congenital hypothyroidism; rather, the focus should be on addressing the hormone deficiency. Encouraging a high-calcium diet (Choice C) may not directly address the thyroid hormone deficiency characteristic of congenital hypothyroidism. Increasing physical exercise (Choice D) is not the mainstay treatment for this condition; hormone replacement therapy is the cornerstone of management.