A nurse is conducting a comprehensive assessment of a patient with an eating disorder. Which aspects should the nurse assess to provide holistic care?

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.

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.