The nurse is caring for a client newly admitted to the behavioral health unit with anorexia nervosa. The nurse should prioritize monitoring the client's
The nurse is caring for a client newly admitted to the behavioral health unit with anorexia nervosa. The nurse should prioritize monitoring the client's
A. coping skills.
[8%]
B. electrolyte levels.
[75%]
C. weight.
[14%]
D. dietary preferences.
[4%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Management of Care
Related Topic
Establishing Priorities
Item Type
Item Type
Analysis
Explanation
Choice B is correct. Clients with anorexia nervosa often experience electrolyte abnormalities, specifically hypokalemia and/or hyponatremia. These electrolyte abnormalities may predispose the client to tachyarrhythmias or sudden death due to ventricular tachyarrhythmias. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize assessing the client for electrolyte abnormalities.
Choice A is incorrect. Assessing the client's coping skills is not a priority because physiological instability caused by significant alterations in electrolytes is a real and pressing concern.
Choice C is incorrect. Assessing the client's weight is necessary to determine the client's progression (or regression) during treatment. However, assessing and correcting electrolyte imbalances is the priority because this is a consequential parameter that may cause a person to develop hemodynamic instability.
Choice D is incorrect. Dietary preferences should be factored into the care plan. They do not prioritize over the client's electrolytes, which may be significantly altered.
Learning Objective
When assessing a client admitted due to anorexia nervosa, recognize the need to prioritize assessing the client's electrolyte levels.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics
Anorexia Nervosa
32.4 Eating Disorders
Additional Info
