9

CHAPTER

137

Vitamins and

Minerals

Growing up, you may have been told it is important to eat a well-balanced meal so

that you get the vitamins and minerals needed to build a strong, healthy body. As

kids, we probably consider this a ploy to finish our supper. We developed a respect

for those words because vitamins and minerals are necessary to remain healthy.

Some patients may not eat a balanced diet for various reasons. Therefore, it

is critical that you assess the patient for vitamin and mineral deficiencies and

administer the prescribed therapy to restore the patient’s nutritional balance.

In this chapter you’ll learn about vitamins and minerals and how to assess

patients for deficiencies. You’ll also learn about vitamin therapy and mineral

therapy and how to educate your patient about proper nutrition.

Vitamins

Vitamins are organic chemicals that are required for metabolic activities neces-

sary for tissue growth and healing. Under normal conditions, only a small amount

of vitamins—which are provided by eating a well balanced diet—are necessary.

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