A client with an eating disorder has a distorted body image and irrational beliefs. What therapeutic approach should the nurse use to address this issue?

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring vital signs and weight is important, but it primarily falls under the medical management of the patient's condition rather than within the scope of nursing interventions for promoting psychological well-being in a care plan for eating disorders.

Choice B rationale:

Providing positive reinforcement for eating is appropriate as patients with eating disorders often struggle with food-related anxieties. Positive reinforcement can encourage them to establish healthier eating habits and reduce fear around food.

Choice C rationale:

Teaching coping skills and stress management techniques is essential. Many patients with eating disorders use disordered eating behaviors as coping mechanisms. Providing alternative coping strategies can help them manage stress without resorting to unhealthy behaviors.

Choice D rationale:

Involving the family in the treatment process can be beneficial. Eating disorders can affect not only the individual but also the family dynamics. Educating the family about the disorder, its triggers, and how to provide support can contribute to the patient's overall recovery.

Choice E rationale:

Respecting the patient's beliefs and values is crucial in building trust and rapport. It helps create a patient-centered approach that considers their individual preferences and cultural factors when developing and implementing the care plan.

Choice A rationale:

The response "You're right, you shouldn't be eating." reinforces the client's negative and harmful belief about not deserving to eat. This response is not therapeutic and can worsen the client's condition.

Choice B rationale:

The response "Don't worry, your weight is not a concern." dismisses the client's feelings and doesn't address the underlying distorted thoughts about their body and food. It's important to acknowledge their emotions rather than trivialize them.

Choice C rationale:

The response "It sounds like you have negative thoughts about your body." shows empathy and reflective listening. It opens the door for further discussion about the client's feelings and allows the nurse to explore their thought patterns.

Choice D rationale:

The response "Eating is not important, we should focus on your medication." minimizes the significance of the client's eating disorder and focuses solely on medication, disregarding the psychological and nutritional aspects of treatment.