Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Why might a resident be placed on a special diet?

1. A. Because the NA thinks the resident is too heavy

2. B. Because the dietary department is testing out new recipes

3. C. Because the resident does not care for eggs

4. D. Because the resident has food allergies

The correct answer is: D. Because the resident has food allergies

A resident might be placed on a special diet primarily to address specific health needs, one of which includes allergies to certain foods. When a resident has food allergies, consuming those allergens can lead to serious reactions that may range from mild discomfort to life-threatening situations. Therefore, it's crucial for the dietary plan to eliminate those allergens and provide alternatives that ensure the resident receives proper nutrition without risking their health. In contrast, the other options do not reflect valid medical or dietary reasons for placing a resident on a special diet. For example, a resident's weight or personal likes and dislikes do not inherently warrant a medically necessary dietary adjustment. Additionally, utilizing a special diet to test new recipes is not consistent with prioritizing a resident's health and nutrition needs.