NCLEX Questions on Gastrointestinal System Related

Review NCLEX Questions on Gastrointestinal System related questions and content

What is the most common cause of secondary protein-calorie malnutrition in the United States?

  • A. The unavailability of foods high in protein
  • B. A lack of knowledge about nutritional needs
  • C. A lack of money to purchase high-protein foods
  • D. An alteration in ingestion absorption or metabolism
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because an alteration in ingestion, absorption, or metabolism can lead to secondary protein-calorie malnutrition. This can occur due to various medical conditions affecting the digestive system, such as malabsorption syndromes or metabolic disorders. The other choices are incorrect because the primary cause of secondary protein-calorie malnutrition in the US is not the unavailability of high-protein foods, lack of knowledge about nutritional needs, or lack of money to purchase such foods. These factors may contribute to malnutrition but are not the most common cause in this context.