PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

In what scenario is a low-residue diet indicated?

1. Diverticulitis.

2. Crohn's disease.

3. Heart disease.

4. Diabetes.

The correct answer is: Crohn's disease.

A low-residue diet is particularly indicated in the management of conditions that require a reduction of intestinal bulk to minimize bowel activity and allow for healing or reduction of inflammation. Crohn's disease, an inflammatory bowel disease, often leads to episodes of inflammation, narrowing of the intestinal tract, or blockages. During acute flare-ups, a low-residue diet helps to minimize bowel stimulation by reducing the amount of undigested food and fiber that travels through the intestines, ultimately allowing for rest and repair of the gastrointestinal tract. This type of diet typically limits high-fiber foods, which is beneficial in these situations since fibers can exacerbate symptoms by increasing bulk. In contrast, other options don't typically necessitate a low-residue diet. For example, diverticulitis might also require a low-fiber diet during flare-ups but does not indicate a low-residue diet as a primary recommendation. Heart disease and diabetes focus more on heart-healthy or glycemic-controlled diets rather than residue levels in food.