What nutrient deficiency should a nurse be concerned about for a school-age child in a vegan household?

What nutrient deficiency should a nurse be concerned about for a school-age child in a vegan household?

• A. Vitamin B12
• B. Iron
• C. Calcium
• D. Vitamin D

Answer: (D)

The concern for a school-age child in a vegan household primarily revolves around the potential for vitamin B12 deficiency rather than vitamin D. Vitamin B12 is predominantly found in animal products, and since a vegan diet excludes these sources, it can lead to insufficient intake. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can result in anemia and neurological issues, making it crucial for caregivers to ensure adequate supplementation or alternatives are included in the child's diet. Calcium and iron are also important nutrients that can be of concern in a vegan diet, as they are found in many animal products. However, there are plant-based sources and fortified foods that can help meet these needs. Vitamin D, while important for bone health and generally obtained through diet and sunlight exposure, is not as directly linked to vegan dietary restrictions as vitamin B12. Therefore, while vitamin D should certainly be monitored, the most pressing nutrient concern in a vegan diet for a growing child would be vitamin B12.

The concern for a school-age child in a vegan household primarily revolves around the potential for vitamin B12 deficiency rather than vitamin D. Vitamin B12 is predominantly found in animal products, and since a vegan diet excludes these sources, it can lead to insufficient intake. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can result in anemia and neurological issues, making it crucial for caregivers to ensure adequate supplementation or alternatives are included in the child's diet.

Calcium and iron are also important nutrients that can be of concern in a vegan diet, as they are found in many animal products. However, there are plant-based sources and fortified foods that can help meet these needs. Vitamin D, while important for bone health and generally obtained through diet and sunlight exposure, is not as directly linked to vegan dietary restrictions as vitamin B12. Therefore, while vitamin D should certainly be monitored, the most pressing nutrient concern in a vegan diet for a growing child would be vitamin B12.