Capstone Nursing Care of Children Practice Exam 2026 - Free Nursing Practice Questions and Study Guide

For a child with cystic fibrosis (CF), increasing protein intake is essential due to the body's increased protein needs. Cystic fibrosis leads to malabsorption of nutrients, including proteins, because thick mucus can obstruct pancreatic enzymes that aid in digestion. A greater protein intake helps support growth, maintain muscle mass, and overall health.

In addition to increased protein, children with CF often require a higher overall caloric intake, including fats and carbohydrates, to meet their energy needs because they expend more energy than their peers due to the increased work of breathing and the additional effort needed to digest food.

While the other dietary options may have specific contexts or reasons for modification in different scenarios, increasing protein is a primary recommendation for supporting the overall nutritional and developmental needs of a child with cystic fibrosis.