Foundations of Nursing: Nutrition, Hydration & Related Care

Vocabulary flashcards summarizing key nutrition, hydration, and clinical care concepts from the lecture notes.

Orthostatic Hypotension

A drop in blood pressure that occurs when moving from sitting or lying to standing, often causing dizziness or light-headedness.

Skin Turgor

Elasticity of the skin used to assess hydration status; slow recoil (poor turgor) suggests dehydration.

Dehydration Indicators in Older Adults

Confusion, dry mucous membranes, concentrated dark urine, poor skin turgor, and low blood pressure signal inadequate fluid intake.

Hematocrit

The percentage of red blood cells in whole blood; elevated values relative to hemoglobin often indicate hemoconcentration from dehydration.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A weight-for-height calculation (kg/m²); 25–29.9 = overweight, guiding need for weight-loss interventions.

DASH Diet

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension; emphasizes fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains, adequate calcium/potassium, and reduced sodium.

2-Gram Sodium-Restricted Diet

Meal plan limiting sodium to ~2,000 mg/day; avoids added salt and high-sodium foods to help manage blood pressure and fluid balance.

Coronary Artery Disease Diet Recommendation

Limit dietary cholesterol sources, especially egg yolks, to lower atherosclerotic risk.

Iron Absorption and Vitamin C

Vitamin C enhances non-heme iron uptake; taking iron supplements or iron-rich foods with citrus juice improves absorption.

Blood Transfusion Reaction (Early Sign)

A sudden decrease in blood pressure or other acute changes within minutes of starting an infusion indicating a possible adverse reaction.

Distended Neck Veins

Visible bulging of the jugular veins, often indicating fluid overload or heart failure.

Processed Foods

Commercially prepared items typically high in sodium; limiting them reduces overall salt intake.

Weight-Loss Strategy

Combine a balanced, reduced-calorie diet with at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity to lower BMI.

Hypertension Nutrition

Adequate calcium and potassium intake with lower sodium helps control blood pressure; emphasize fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy.

Constipation

Infrequent or difficult bowel movements; often linked to inadequate fiber or fluid intake and may be relieved by increased hydration.