Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What are common signs and symptoms of nutritional deficits?

1. Skin rashes and muscle wasting

2. Elevated blood pressure and fever

3. Increased appetite and weight gain

4. Headaches and digestive issues

The correct answer is: Skin rashes and muscle wasting

Skin rashes and muscle wasting are indeed common signs and symptoms of nutritional deficits. Nutritional deficiencies can lead to various skin changes, including rashes and sores, as the body lacks essential nutrients needed for healthy skin maintenance and repair. For instance, deficiencies in vitamins A, B, C, or essential fatty acids can manifest as skin problems. Muscle wasting is another critical indicator of inadequate nutrition, particularly when protein intake is insufficient. The body starts to break down muscle tissue to obtain necessary amino acids for essential functions, leading to a noticeable loss of muscle mass and strength. This typically occurs in individuals who are malnourished or have restricted dietary intake. In terms of the other options, elevated blood pressure and fever are not directly linked to nutritional deficits; rather, they can be associated with other underlying health conditions. Increased appetite and weight gain may suggest an alternative issue such as metabolic problems rather than nutritional deficits. Lastly, while headaches and digestive issues could be indirectly related to poor nutrition, they are not as definitive or common indicators as skin rashes and muscle wasting.