AACN Essentials Of Critical Care Nursing Practice Test

In nutritional assessment, which data would be used to estimate energy expenditure?

Food allergies Use of nutritional supplements If can swallow Height and weight

Correct Answer:

Height and weight

Explanation:

Estimating energy expenditure relies on formulas that convert body size into metabolic needs. Height and weight are fundamental inputs because they reflect the body's mass and surface area, which drive metabolic rate. By using height and weight, you can estimate basal energy needs (BMR) and, when combined with an activity factor, total energy expenditure. The other data—food allergies, use of nutritional supplements, or ability to swallow—don’t inform how many calories the body requires; they relate to dietary restrictions, intake feasibility, or nutrition management rather than energy needs.

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