Editing Nutrition – LPN Flashcards (section)

== Nutrition Across the Lifespan ==

;Which two foods must never be given to an infant under 12 months?
:Honey, because of infant botulism risk, and cow's milk, because it causes intestinal blood loss, is low in iron, and stresses the kidneys.

;How are new foods introduced to an infant?
:One new single-ingredient food at a time, waiting 3 to 5 days before adding the next, so that any allergic reaction can be traced to a specific food. Solids typically start around 6 months.

;What are common choking hazards for young children?
:Whole grapes, hot dog rounds, nuts, popcorn, hard candy, raw carrot chunks, and large spoonfuls of peanut butter.

;Why does a toddler's appetite decrease, and what should the LPN tell the parent?
:Growth slows sharply after infancy, producing normal physiologic anorexia. Reassure the parent, offer small portions of about 1 tablespoon of each food per year of age, allow self-feeding, and avoid using food as a reward or punishment.

;What nutrition changes accompany aging?
:Calorie needs fall while protein, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 needs stay the same or rise, thirst sensation is blunted so dehydration is common, and taste, smell, dentition, saliva, and appetite all decline. Nutrient-dense foods and scheduled fluids are the answer.

;What barriers to eating should the LPN look for in an older adult?
:Poorly fitting dentures, missing teeth, mouth pain or sores, dry mouth from medications, difficulty swallowing, tremor or weakness limiting utensil use, depression, isolation, inability to shop or cook, and limited income.