ATI Nutrition Practice A

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Malnutrition is often associated with a weakened immune system. This is because when the body is not sufficiently nourished, it lacks the necessary nutrients to maintain a well-functioning immune system, making patients more vulnerable to infections and other health complications. This can potentially increase mortality rates and prolong hospital stays, contrary to choice C. Choices A and B are incorrect as malnutrition does not lead to decreased health care costs or high blood pressure. In fact, it may increase health care costs due to the potential for increased complications and extended hospital stays.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A patient's dietary order is most frequently prescribed by a physician. This is because the physician has a comprehensive understanding of the patient's medical condition and can thus determine the most suitable dietary plan. Registered dietitians often collaborate with physicians in this process, but the final prescription is made by the physician. Although registered nurses, dietetic technicians, and occupational therapists play significant roles in patient care, they typically do not prescribe diet orders.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Increasing potassium intake can help reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The large intestine is the organ that is primarily responsible for the absorption of water and vitamin K in the human body. A disease like ulcerative colitis can disrupt these functions by causing inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine, leading to digestive issues. The stomach (Choice A) primarily functions to break down and digest food, not to absorb water and vitamins. The pancreas (Choice B) secretes enzymes to aid in digestion and hormones to regulate blood sugar, but does not absorb water and vitamins. The small intestine (Choice D) is primarily responsible for absorbing nutrients from digested food, but not specifically water and vitamin K. Therefore, these other choices are incorrect.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A kilocalorie count is the correct answer as it involves directly observing a client's food intake, which is often used in hospitals to accurately assess nutritional intake and ensure it meets dietary requirements. A food diary (Choice A) is typically self-reported by the client and not directly observed. A 24-hour recall (Choice B) is also usually self-reported and relies on a client's memory of the past 24 hours, which can be unreliable. A nutrient surveillance record (Choice D) is a broader term for tracking nutrient intake in a population and is not specific to the direct observation of an individual's food intake.