Ohio Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of a therapeutic diet?

1. To provide comfort only

2. To meet patient's cultural preferences

3. For treatment of diseases or clinical conditions

4. To encourage excessive food intake

The correct answer is: For treatment of diseases or clinical conditions

The primary purpose of a therapeutic diet is for the treatment of diseases or clinical conditions. Therapeutic diets are specifically designed to aid in the management and treatment of various health issues. They are formulated to provide the necessary nutrients while addressing specific dietary restrictions or modifications based on a patient's medical needs. For example, individuals with diabetes may require a diet low in sugars and high in fiber, while those with hypertension may need to limit sodium intake. While comfort and cultural preferences are indeed important factors in overall patient care and dietary choices, they do not define the primary objective of a therapeutic diet. Additionally, encouraging excessive food intake contradicts the goal of managing health conditions, as therapeutic diets typically regulate quantities and types of food to promote health, prevent complications, and assist in recovery.