Which of the following is a water-soluble vitamin?

Appeared in: KPSC Staff Nurse - 2017

Explanation

Vitamins are classified as either water-soluble or fat-soluble.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning it dissolves in water.
Unlike fat-soluble vitamins, water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body in significant amounts.
Excess water-soluble vitamins are typically excreted in the urine, requiring regular dietary intake.

Option A: Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, not a water-soluble one. It is stored in the liver and fatty tissues.
Option C: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. It is essential for calcium absorption and is stored in the body.
Option D: Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant. It is stored in the body's fatty tissues.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of vitamins (water-soluble vs. fat-soluble) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the difference between water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins is crucial for patient education regarding diet and supplementation.
Nurses must advise patients that since fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) are stored in the body, excessive intake through supplements can lead to toxicity (hypervitaminosis), which can have serious health consequences.
Conversely, patients should be taught that water-soluble vitamins (C and B-complex) need to be replenished daily through diet as they are not stored.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'water-soluble vitamin'.
Recall the two main classifications of vitamins: water-soluble and fat-soluble.
Mentally list the vitamins in each category. Water-soluble vitamins are Vitamin C and the B-complex group. Fat-soluble vitamins are A, D, E, and K (mnemonic: 'ADEK').
Scan the options provided: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E.
Compare the options to your recalled lists and identify that Vitamin C is the only water-soluble vitamin among the choices.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nutrition Monika Sharma 3e p. 110-112

E6 textbook of Applied Biochemistry and Nutrition & DieteticsHarbans Lal (pp 26-464 of 479) p. 287-289

Practise the full KPSC Staff Nurse - 2017

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.