Question

Why do nurses need to have a thorough understanding of vitamins? Describe a scenario in which a knowledge of the roles and sources of vitamins would be essential for good patient care.

Answer 1

Healthy diet remains the best way to get sufficient amounts of the vitamins and minerals .there a about 30 vitamins ,minerals and dietary components that required by the body but cannot manufacture on its own.vitamins and minerals are considered essential nutrients because they perform many roles

help shoreup bones

heal wounds

boister immnue system

convert food into energy

repair cellular damage

If nurse has through understanding about vitamins she can help patients to make informed decisions about nurtitional supplements

the number of people who take daily vitamins are increasing so proper education give better result

excess amount of vitamins can result in toxicity therefore dietary consulation is essential before planning diet [excess iron can cause hemochromatosis,zinc may interfere with copper metabolism]

PREVENTS BIRTH DEFECTS

taking folic acid supplements early in pregnancy helps prevent brain and spinal birth defects [spina bifida] in offspring .A pregnant women who previously delivered an infant with a neural tube defect may be prescribed with a therapeutic folic acid dose 10 times the normal requirements to reduce the chance ofreurrence .All female of child bearing age should get atlest 400mcg of folic acid daily ,either in supplement form or through fortified foods or other foods rich in nutrient

FOLIC ACID RICH FOODS ARE

LEGUMES

leafy vegitables

beets,citrus fruits,broccoli,eggs,and brussels sprouts

-It is recommendable to have folic acid rich food and   folic acid tablets [as docter prescribed] at least three months before conceive