NURS 3100 Exam 1 Practice

Which conditions are associated with a deficiency of vitamin C? (Select all that apply)

1. Bleeding gums

2. Dysrhythmias

3. Megaloblastic anemia

4. Scurvy

The correct answer is: Bleeding gums

A deficiency of vitamin C is associated with various conditions, including bleeding gums. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, which is essential for the health of blood vessels and connective tissues. When there is a deficiency in vitamin C, collagen production is impaired, resulting in weakened blood vessels and fragile gums, leading to bleeding. While dysrhythmias and megaloblastic anemia are health conditions related to other vitamin deficiencies or unrelated issues, they are not specifically associated with a deficiency of vitamin C. Scurvy, on the other hand, is a condition directly caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, irritability, and swollen or bleeding gums.