Ohio Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What aspect of a therapeutic diet makes it different from a standard daily meal plan?

1. It requires excessive physical exercise

2. It does not consider patient needs

3. It's based solely on caloric intake

4. It may modify, eliminate, decrease, or increase certain substances

The correct answer is: It may modify, eliminate, decrease, or increase certain substances

The correct answer highlights that a therapeutic diet is specifically tailored to address the unique medical needs and conditions of an individual. Unlike a standard daily meal plan, which typically provides balanced nutrition for general health, a therapeutic diet can involve alterations that modify, eliminate, decrease, or increase specific foods or nutrients. This customization is essential for managing certain health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, or food allergies, allowing for better control of health outcomes. Considering the other options, none align with the true essence of a therapeutic diet. For instance, excessive physical exercise is not a defining feature of a therapeutic diet; rather, it may be recommended alongside dietary changes for overall health improvement. Also, a therapeutic diet is formulated with the patient's needs in mind, contrary to the implication that it does not consider those needs. Lastly, while caloric intake is important, a therapeutic diet goes beyond just counting calories, focusing instead on the quality and type of nutrients appropriate for the individual’s health condition. Therefore, the focus on modifying certain substances makes the therapeutic diet distinct and effective for specific patient care.