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    HEALTH ASSESSMENT PROCTORED EXAM
    Select All That Apply

    Which of the following is common when a patient's nutritional reserves are depleted? Select all that apply.

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Lower resistance to infections: Protein-energy malnutrition impairs the production of leukocytes and immunoglobulins essential for the immune response. Depleted micronutrients like zinc and vitamin C further compromise mucosal barriers and cellular immunity. This increases the host's susceptibility to opportunistic and pathogenic microbes. B. Delayed wound healing: Tissue repair requires adequate stores of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to synthesize collagen and new cells. Without sufficient nutritional reserves, the inflammatory and proliferative phases of healing are significantly prolonged. This increases the risk of wound dehiscence and chronic ulceration. C. Gallbladder disease: This condition is more frequently associated with obesity, rapid weight loss, or high-fat diets rather than depleted reserves. While malnutrition can lead to biliary stasis, it is not a primary or common hallmark of generalized undernutrition. Other systemic failures take precedence in depleted states. D. Impaired growth & development: Adequate caloric and nutrient intake is mandatory for the physiological processes of hypertrophy and hyperplasia during maturation. Nutritional deficits disrupt the endocrine signals and structural building blocks required for skeletal and cognitive advancement. This often results in stunting or developmental delays. E. Type II diabetes: This metabolic disorder is primarily characterized by insulin resistance and is strongly linked to overnutrition and adiposity. Depleted nutritional reserves usually correlate with increased insulin sensitivity or low glycemic levels. It is not a common consequence of chronic nutrient depletion.

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