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

What is the recommended caloric intake for adults?

1. 25-30 cal/kg body weight

2. 30-35 cal/kg body weight

3. 40-45 cal/kg body weight

4. 15-20 cal/kg body weight

The correct answer is: 30-35 cal/kg body weight

The recommended caloric intake of 30-35 calories per kilogram of body weight for adults is grounded in nutritional science and reflects the energy requirements necessary to maintain optimal bodily functions, support physical activity, and promote overall health. This range takes into account factors such as age, gender, activity level, and the individual’s health status. Using this caloric range allows for a balanced approach to energy needs. For most adults, particularly those with moderate activity levels, this intake can help in maintaining a healthy weight and ensuring that the body receives adequate nutrients to support metabolic processes. Factors such as increased physical activity or particular health conditions may necessitate adjustments within this range, which is why it's important for nutrition plans to be individualized. In contrast to the other options, the lower caloric recommendations may not provide enough energy for adults with higher activity levels or specific metabolic demands, while the upper range could result in excessive caloric intake, potentially leading to weight gain and other health issues if not balanced with energy expenditure.