2 Nutrition and Hydration Free Online FlashCards

What does nutrition support?

Nutrition provides energy and nutrients for growth, tissue repair, immune function, and daily activity.

Which key functions does hydration support?

Hydration supports circulation, temperature regulation, digestion, and kidney function.

What should a nutritional assessment explore?

Assess weight changes, appetite, usual intake, health conditions, eating ability, food access, preferences, and the help needed at meals.

Can one laboratory value establish nutritional status?

No single laboratory value establishes nutritional status; tests may help investigate a problem but must be considered alongside other assessment findings.

How can calorie and nutrient needs differ in older adults?

Older adults may need fewer calories but still benefit from nutrient-dense foods; their individual nutrient needs should be considered.

Why should fluid intake be individualized?

Fluid needs vary with factors such as illness, activity, heat, and medications. Follow prescribed fluid limits and swallowing instructions rather than assuming more fluid is always appropriate.

What signs may occur with dehydration, and what is their limitation?

Thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, and reduced or dark urine may occur with dehydration, but no single sign reliably determines hydration status.

What supports safer pacing when assisting someone to eat?

Help the person sit upright, offer small bites or sips at a comfortable pace, and wait for each bite to be swallowed before offering another.

Which signs may indicate a swallowing problem?

Coughing, choking, throat-clearing, a wet or gurgly voice, or difficulty coordinating breathing and swallowing may indicate a swallowing problem.

What should you do if swallowing difficulty appears during a meal?

Stop feeding and report the concern according to facility protocol; seek a swallowing assessment.

When may food texture or liquid thickness be changed?

Do not independently change food texture, thicken liquids, or use a swallowing maneuver unless it is part of the person's assessed plan.

Does eating without coughing rule out aspiration risk?

No. Some people aspirate without obvious coughing, so apparently easy eating does not rule out risk.