A nurse is caring for a patient with an eating disorder. Which of the following physiological changes is commonly associated with eating disorders?

Choice A rationale:

"I might need to be hospitalized to stabilize my physical condition." Hospitalization is often necessary for individuals with severe eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa with significant medical complications. Inpatient treatment might be required to stabilize the patient's physical condition, provide proper nutrition, and address any medical complications arising from malnutrition.

Choice B rationale:

"Psychotherapy and medication can help address the psychological aspects of my disorder." Psychotherapy, often including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication can indeed play crucial roles in treating eating disorders. These approaches help address the underlying psychological factors contributing to the disorder and aid in promoting healthier eating behaviors. This statement indicates that the patient understands the comprehensive nature of treatment.

Choice C rationale:

"Relapse prevention strategies are not necessary once I have recovered." This statement is indicative of a misunderstanding about the nature of eating disorders. Relapse prevention strategies are essential to maintain recovery and prevent relapse. Eating disorders have a psychological component, and individuals need to continue practicing healthy behaviors, coping skills, and strategies even after they have made progress in their recovery journey.

Choice D rationale:

"Social support, such as family involvement or peer support, can be helpful in maintaining recovery." Social support is indeed valuable for individuals with eating disorders. Engaging with family, friends, or support groups can contribute to the maintenance of recovery. The statement reflects an accurate understanding of the role of social support in the treatment and recovery process.

Choice A rationale:

Stabilizing the patient's physical condition. For individuals with severe eating disorders, especially anorexia nervosa, the priority is often to address their physical health and stabilize any medical complications arising from malnutrition. This might involve medical interventions, nutritional rehabilitation, and closely monitoring vital signs to prevent serious health consequences.

Choice B rationale:

Addressing the psychological aspects of the disorder. While addressing the psychological aspects is an integral part of treating eating disorders, it's crucial to prioritize physical health when dealing with severe cases. Malnutrition can lead to various medical complications, including electrolyte imbalances, organ damage, and cardiac issues. Without addressing the physical health first, psychological interventions might be less effective.

Choice C rationale:

Preventing relapse and maintaining recovery. Preventing relapse and maintaining recovery are important aspects of long-term treatment, but they become more relevant after the patient's physical condition has been stabilized. Once the immediate physical risks are minimized, efforts can shift toward addressing psychological factors and developing strategies to prevent relapse.

Choice D rationale:

Providing ongoing follow-up care. Ongoing follow-up care is essential for individuals with eating disorders to ensure that they continue to progress in their recovery journey and to monitor any potential relapse signs. However, this becomes more pertinent once the patient's physical condition has been stabilized and initial treatment has been provided.