Which of the following nutrients is essential for Tissue Repair?

Raj. CHO -2020

Applied Nutrition & Dietetics

Easy

Appeared in: Raj. CHO -2020

Explanation

Protein is the most essential nutrient for tissue repair as it is broken down into amino acids, which are the fundamental building blocks for synthesizing new tissues, including collagen.
Adequate protein intake is crucial for all phases of wound healing, including fibroplasia (new tissue formation), angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), and immune function.
The body's demand for protein increases during healing; deficiency leads to impaired collagen deposition, delayed healing, and increased susceptibility to infection.

Option A: Vitamins are essential helpers (cofactors) in the healing process but are not the primary structural components of new tissue. For example, Vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis, but it is not the collagen itself.
Option B: Carbohydrates are the body's primary source of energy. Their main role in healing is to provide the fuel needed for cellular activities, thus 'sparing' protein from being used as an energy source.
Option C: Fats are a secondary source of energy and provide essential fatty acids for cell membrane structure and inflammatory modulation. They are not the primary building blocks for tissue.

Visual 1: Infographic: The Role of Macronutrients and Micronutrients in Wound Healing. This visual would show a cross-section of a wound and illustrate how protein builds the tissue matrix, carbohydrates provide energy for the cells, and vitamins/minerals assist in the enzymatic processes.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Nutritional requirements for tissue repair and wound healing as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must assess the nutritional status of patients with wounds, as malnutrition is a major cause of delayed healing. This includes observing intake and recommending dietary consultation.
For patients with pressure injuries or surgical wounds, nurses should advocate for and encourage high-protein foods like lean meats, eggs, dairy, and legumes.
What if the patient has chronic kidney disease? In this case, a high-protein diet could be harmful. The nurse must collaborate with a dietitian and physician to determine a safe and effective protein intake that supports healing without overburdening the kidneys.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: it asks for the 'essential' nutrient for 'tissue repair'.
Think about the basic biological functions of the options. What are tissues made of?
Recall that body structures (muscles, skin, organs) are primarily built from proteins.
Evaluate each option's main role: Protein = Building blocks. Carbohydrates/Fats = Energy. Vitamins = Helpers/Cofactors.
Conclude that for 'repair' (which is a form of building), the building block nutrient (protein) is the most essential.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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