A female client with anorexia nervosa and a cardiac condition was prescribed an antidepressant before she regained weight during her treatment course. The nurse should be aware of the possibility of which condition in this client?

B. Conversion disorder involves the presence of neurological symptoms that are inconsistent with known neurological or medical conditions. These symptoms often manifest as sensory or motor deficits, such as blindness, paralysis, or seizures, without a clear organic basis. The symptoms are not intentionally produced and are not explained by another medical or psychiatric condition.

A. Hypochondriasis, now known as illness anxiety disorder, involves excessive worry or preoccupation with having a serious illness despite medical reassurance and lack of significant physical symptoms. It does not typically involve sensory or neurological symptoms such as blindness.

C. Malingering involves the intentional production or exaggeration of symptoms for secondary gain, such as financial compensation, avoiding military duty, or obtaining drugs. In malingering, there is typically a clear external incentive for the behavior, which is not evident in the soldier's case.

D. Somatization disorder (now termed somatic symptom disorder) involves multiple and recurrent physical symptoms that are distressing and lead to excessive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to these symptoms. It does not typically present with sudden onset of sensory deficits like blindness.

A. Severely restricted food intake can lead to imbalances in electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and chloride. These imbalances can disrupt normal heart rhythm (arrhythmias) and other vital functions, potentially leading to cardiac arrest, which is a common cause of death in individuals with anorexia nervosa.

B. Individuals with anorexia nervosa are at increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This risk may be due to the severe psychological distress associated with the disorder, as well as the physical complications that can feel overwhelming. Suicide can unfortunately be a tragic consequence in some cases.

D Dehydration is a significant risk in individuals with anorexia nervosa, especially when combined with electrolyte imbalances. Dehydration can lead to organ failure, particularly kidney failure, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.

E. Severe muscle wasting can occur in individuals with anorexia nervosa, particularly in later stages of the disorder. Loss of muscle mass contributes to overall physical weakness and compromises essential bodily functions, potentially leading to organ failure and death.

C. Anorexia nervosa itself does not directly cause diabetes. However, individuals with severe anorexia may develop metabolic disturbances, including insulin resistance, due to malnutrition. This can lead to abnormal blood sugar levels, but diabetes as a direct cause of death in anorexia is less common compared to other complications.