A nurse is caring for a patient with an eating disorder. Which nursing intervention is appropriate for this patient?

Choice A rationale:

This choice is inappropriate. In anorexia nervosa, encouraging the client to eat more may not address the underlying psychological and emotional issues related to the disorder. It oversimplifies the complexity of the disorder and could further exacerbate the client's anxiety about weight gain.

Choice B rationale:

This choice is inappropriate. Telling the client to stop restricting food intake oversimplifies the challenges of anorexia nervosa. Recovery involves addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder, and such a statement may not provide the necessary support and understanding.

Choice C rationale:

This choice is accurate. This statement acknowledges the client's fear of gaining weight while also emphasizing the importance of their health. It demonstrates empathy and understanding while promoting a balanced perspective on the client's concerns.

Choice D rationale:

This choice is inappropriate. Encouraging the client to exercise more as a way to increase appetite overlooks the fact that anorexia nervosa is not solely about appetite suppression. The disorder involves complex psychological factors that cannot be addressed through simple solutions like increased exercise.

The correct answer is choice B, D, and E.

Choice A rationale:

Administering pain management medications is not typically a direct intervention for eating disorders unless the patient has a comorbid condition that requires pain management. Eating disorders primarily require nutritional, psychological, and physiological interventions.

Choice B rationale:

Providing nutritional education is a fundamental intervention for patients with eating disorders. It helps them understand the importance of balanced nutrition and addresses any misconceptions about food and diet that may contribute to their condition.

Choice C rationale:

Assisting with wound care may be necessary if the patient has self-inflicted wounds or other injuries, but it is not a standard nursing intervention for eating disorders unless there are specific complications that require such care.

Choice D rationale:

Recommending meditation techniques can be beneficial for patients with eating disorders as it can help reduce anxiety, improve stress management, and promote a more positive body image and self-esteem.

Choice E rationale:

Monitoring vital signs is crucial for patients with eating disorders due to the potential for severe physiological complications such as electrolyte imbalances, cardiac issues, and other vital sign instabilities that can arise from malnutrition and the behaviors associated with eating disorders.