ATI Nutrition Practice A

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Atherosclerosis is dangerous to arterial function because it narrows the arterial lumen, increasing the risk of a clot completely blocking the blood flow. This can lead to severe cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes. Choice A is incorrect since atherosclerosis does not primarily diminish central circulation, but rather, it impedes local blood flow where the plaque is present. Choice B is also incorrect as atherosclerosis increases the pressure on artery walls due to the narrowed space for blood flow, not decrease it. Lastly, choice D is incorrect as atherosclerosis causes the arteries to lose their elasticity, not increase it.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Smoking is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis. It significantly contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries and thereby increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, exercise is generally beneficial for cardiovascular health and is not a risk factor for atherosclerosis. Excessive sun exposure and insufficient vaccinations have no established links to atherosclerosis, making them incorrect options for this question.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), both omega-3 fatty acids, are known to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cardiac cachexia is a condition characterized by severe weight loss and tissue wasting. This typically occurs in patients suffering from heart failure due to an increased energy expenditure and reduced appetite, which is why choice B is the correct answer. The other choices are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the symptoms of cardiac cachexia. Decreased physical activity (choice A) can be a result of many conditions, not specifically cardiac cachexia. Poor urine output and tissue edema (choice C) are more indicative of kidney problems rather than cardiac cachexia. Finally, cardiac arrhythmia and wet lung sounds (choice D) are symptoms related to other cardiac conditions, not specifically to cardiac cachexia.

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.