Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Which of the following is a sign of unintended weight loss that should be reported?

1. Eating lean cuts of meat

2. Eating dessert before dinner

3. Avoiding fried foods and sweets

4. Coughing or choking while eating

The correct answer is: Coughing or choking while eating

Unintended weight loss can often be a critical sign of underlying health issues, and it’s essential to monitor various factors that could contribute to this condition. In this context, coughing or choking while eating is particularly concerning. It can indicate that a person is struggling to consume food properly, which may lead to inadequate nutrition and subsequent weight loss. When individuals have difficulty swallowing, they might avoid certain foods or not consume enough overall, leading to unintended weight loss. Thus, if a resident is exhibiting these symptoms, it should be promptly reported to ensure appropriate interventions can be put in place to address their swallowing difficulties and nutritional needs. The other options depict dietary choices that, while they may indicate a preference for healthier eating, do not directly correlate with unintended weight loss. Eating lean cuts of meat, eating dessert before dinner, and avoiding fried foods and sweets reflect different eating habits and preferences but do not suggest any active health issues or signs of malnutrition that would warrant immediate reporting.