A nurse is assessing the client for manifestations of anorexia nervosa. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? Select all that apply.
Client reports preoccupation with thoughts about food.
Client comments that they are too thin and need to gain weight.
Client reports consuming around 600 calories each day.
Client’s hair appears brittle and thin.
Client voices being “too tired” and lacks interest in daily activities.
Client has soft, unpigmented hair on arms.
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E,F
Choice A reason: Preoccupation with food is a hallmark of anorexia nervosa. Clients often obsessively think about food, calories, and meal planning, even while restricting intake. This fixation reflects the psychological component of the disorder, where food dominates thoughts despite avoidance of eating.
Choice B reason: Clients with anorexia nervosa typically do not believe they are too thin or express a desire to gain weight. Instead, they often have a distorted body image, perceiving themselves as overweight even when severely underweight. This statement contradicts the usual presentation and is not expected.
Choice C reason: Severely restricted caloric intake is a defining feature of anorexia nervosa. Consuming around 600 calories per day is far below normal requirements and leads to malnutrition, weight loss, and systemic complications. This behavior is consistent with the disorder.
Choice D reason: Brittle, thinning hair is a physical manifestation of malnutrition. Inadequate protein and nutrient intake weakens hair structure, leading to breakage and loss. This is a common physical sign in anorexia nervosa.
Choice E reason: Fatigue and loss of interest in daily activities are expected due to malnutrition and psychological depression. The body lacks sufficient energy for normal functioning, and the client often withdraws socially and emotionally.
Choice F reason: The presence of soft, unpigmented hair (lanugo) on the arms is a classic manifestation of anorexia nervosa. Lanugo develops as the body’s attempt to insulate itself due to loss of subcutaneous fat. This is a compensatory mechanism seen in severe cases.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking about intent may be important later, but the immediate priority is emergency intervention. This delays life-saving action.
Choice B reason: Asking how many pills were taken is useful for assessment but does not address the immediate need for emergency medical care.
Choice C reason: This is the correct response. Amitriptyline overdose is life-threatening due to risk of cardiac arrhythmias and CNS depression. The nurse must act immediately to send emergency services. This response ensures safety and rapid intervention.
Choice D reason: Acknowledging feelings is therapeutic but not appropriate in an acute overdose crisis. Immediate emergency response is required.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Bradycardia is common in eating disorders due to malnutrition and decreased metabolic demand. The body slows cardiac function to conserve energy.
Choice B reason: Altered body image is a hallmark of eating disorders. Clients often perceive themselves as overweight despite being underweight. This distorted perception drives restrictive behaviors.
Choice C reason: Clients with eating disorders typically do not verbalize a desire to gain weight. Instead, they fear weight gain and resist interventions aimed at restoring healthy weight.
Choice D reason: Amenorrhea occurs due to hormonal disruption from malnutrition. Low body fat and altered hypothalamic function suppress menstruation.
Choice E reason: Hyperactivity is not a typical manifestation. Clients are more likely to experience fatigue, weakness, and decreased energy due to malnutrition.
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