Question

The client with hypercholesterolemia asked about vitamins that can help to lower his cholesterol. Which vitamin has been shown to be helpful in lowering the client's cholesterol level? A. Cyanocobalamine (B 12) B. Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) C. Niacin (B 3) D. Riboflavin (B 2)

Short answer

Answer: Niacin (B 3)

Step-by-step solution

Identify the question

The question specifically asks which vitamin is helpful in lowering a client's cholesterol level.

Review the options

There are four options provided: A. Cyanocobalamine (B 12) B. Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) C. Niacin (B 3) D. Riboflavin (B 2)

Evaluate each option

A. Cyanocobalamine (B 12) - Essential for maintaining healthy nerves and blood cells. But not known to lower cholesterol levels. B. Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) - An antioxidant that promotes healthy immune system and other functions. However, it is not directly helpful in lowering cholesterol levels. C. Niacin (B 3) - Helps the body convert food into energy. It is also known for its effect on improving cholesterol levels - it raises HDL (good) cholesterol and lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides. D. Riboflavin (B 2) - Essential for energy production, but not directly related to cholesterol levels.

Choose the correct answer

Based on the evaluation of each option, the correct answer is: C. Niacin (B 3) - this vitamin has been shown to be helpful in lowering the client's cholesterol level.

Key concepts

Vitamins

Vitamins are essential nutrients that our bodies need in small amounts to function correctly. They play significant roles in general health, influencing everything from growth to immune system effectiveness. Understanding which vitamins affect cholesterol levels can be critical for individuals managing hypercholesterolemia, a condition characterized by high cholesterol levels. For instance, Vitamin B3, known as Niacin, is particularly notable for its positive effects on cholesterol. Niacin helps to improve cholesterol levels by raising high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often referred to as the "good" cholesterol, while simultaneously lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides—the components of cholesterol that contribute to heart disease. This makes Niacin unique among vitamins regarding cholesterol management. More commonly known vitamins like B12 (Cyanocobalamin) and Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) support other bodily functions but do not have a direct impact on cholesterol. When incorporating vitamins into a cholesterol management plan, it's essential to understand their specific benefits and limitations. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding new supplements, as they can provide guidance tailored to individual health needs.

Cholesterol management

Cholesterol management is vital for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This process typically involves lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and sometimes medications. One of the keys to managing cholesterol is understanding the different types of cholesterol and their roles. Cholesterol is classified into two main types:

• LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) - Often known as the "bad" cholesterol, as high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• HDL (High-density lipoprotein) - Referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream.

Dietary interventions can significantly impact cholesterol levels. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage cholesterol. Reducing saturated and trans fats can also lower LDL cholesterol. Additionally, regular physical activity contributes to maintaining a healthy weight and improving cholesterol levels. Sometimes supplements or prescription drugs like statins are necessary if lifestyle changes alone do not achieve the desired cholesterol levels. Niacin is one such supplement that can be part of cholesterol management, particularly when focusing on improving HDL levels and reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

NCLEX-PN exam preparation

Preparing for the NCLEX-PN exam involves understanding a wide range of topics, from practical nursing skills to foundational health concepts. This licensure exam requires a strong grasp of how various health conditions and treatments are interrelated, including specifics like managing hypercholesterolemia. Key strategies to excel in NCLEX-PN exam preparation include:

• Creating a structured study plan that covers all exam content areas.
• Using practice questions and case studies to familiarize yourself with the style and format of the questions.
• Reviewing critical concepts, such as how Niacin and other vitamins affect cholesterol levels, which could appear in questions about patient care related to hypercholesterolemia.

Understanding the role of vitamins and dietary management in treating specific conditions is an excellent way to prepare for questions in the exam's health promotion and maintenance section. Remember to incorporate resources like textbooks, online courses, and study groups in your preparation process to reinforce your knowledge and increase confidence.