A nurse is providing care for a patient with an eating disorder. The patient states, "I feel so fat and disgusting." Which response by the nurse is appropriate?

Choice A rationale:

This choice is accurate. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, can indeed lead to serious medical and psychological consequences. Individuals with these disorders may experience electrolyte imbalances, heart problems, gastrointestinal issues, and severe emotional distress.

Choice B rationale:

This choice is accurate. Eating disorders are more common among adolescents and young adults. These age groups are particularly vulnerable due to factors like body image concerns, peer pressure, and societal influences that emphasize thinness.

Choice C rationale:

This choice is accurate. Eating disorders are influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, environmental, and cultural factors. Genetic predisposition, psychological stressors, societal beauty standards, and family dynamics can all contribute to the development of eating disorders.

Choice D rationale:

This choice is incorrect. Eating disorders do not exclusively affect females. While historically, eating disorders have been associated with females, males can also develop eating disorders. The prevalence of eating disorders in males has been increasing, emphasizing the need to recognize and address these disorders in all genders.

Choice A rationale:

Altered activity of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine is a common neurobiological change associated with eating disorders. These neurotransmitters play key roles in mood regulation, reward pathways, and appetite control. Altered levels of these neurotransmitters can contribute to the development and maintenance of disordered eating behaviors.

Choice B rationale:

Altered structure and function of brain regions involved in processing hunger and satiety are commonly observed in individuals with eating disorders. Brain areas such as the hypothalamus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex, which are responsible for regulating appetite, emotions, and decision-making, can exhibit changes in their neural activity and connectivity due to the impact of prolonged malnutrition and distorted eating behaviors.

Choice C rationale:

Altered connectivity and communication between brain regions and networks is another neurobiological change seen in eating disorders. The brain operates through complex networks, and disruptions in the communication between different regions can lead to dysfunctional behaviors and cognitive processes related to eating and body image.

Choice D rationale:

This choice is correct. All of the aforementioned changes—altered neurotransmitter activity, changes in brain structure and function, and altered connectivity between brain regions—are commonly observed in individuals with eating disorders. These neurobiological alterations underscore the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and environmental factors in the development and progression of these disorders.