A nurse is providing education to a group of adolescents about eating disorders. Which statement by one of the participants indicates a need for further education?

Choice A rationale:

Bradycardia and tachycardia. While these cardiovascular symptoms can occur in eating disorders, they are more commonly associated with anorexia nervosa rather than bulimia nervosa. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is often seen in individuals with severe anorexia due to the body's adaptive response to conserve energy. Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) can occur as a compensatory mechanism in response to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, particularly in those with anorexia. However, in bulimia nervosa, the rapid cycle of binge eating and purging is more likely to lead to electrolyte imbalances that cause other symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

Hypertension and mitral valve prolapse. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is not a common cardiovascular symptom of bulimia nervosa. Mitral valve prolapse, which involves the improper closing of the heart's mitral valve, is also not a typical cardiovascular manifestation of bulimia nervosa. Eating disorders primarily affect the electrical conduction system of the heart and can lead to rhythm disturbances.

Choice C rationale:

Orthostatic hypotension and arrhythmias. This is the correct choice. Orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure upon standing, is a common cardiovascular symptom of bulimia nervosa. It is often a result of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances caused by frequent vomiting and laxative use. Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms) can also occur due to electrolyte imbalances, particularly low levels of potassium, which can disrupt the heart's electrical activity.

Choice D rationale:

Pericardial effusion and cardiomyopathy. While pericardial effusion (accumulation of fluid around the heart) and cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle) can occur in individuals with eating disorders, they are not the most common cardiovascular symptoms. These conditions usually result from prolonged malnutrition and severe electrolyte imbalances, which can occur in both anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. However, orthostatic hypotension and arrhythmias are more characteristic of bulimia nervosa.

Choice A rationale:

The main goal of treatment for eating disorders is to correct nutritional deficiencies and address medical complications. Many individuals with eating disorders suffer from severe malnutrition due to inadequate food intake, and this can lead to a range of medical issues such as electrolyte imbalances, cardiac problems, and organ dysfunction. Prioritizing the correction of these physical health issues is essential to ensure the patient's immediate well-being and prevent further deterioration.

Choice B rationale:

While restoring normal eating patterns is an important aspect of treating eating disorders, it is not the main goal. Normalizing eating habits and reestablishing a healthy relationship with food are crucial steps in the recovery process, but these efforts often come after addressing the immediate medical concerns.

Choice C rationale:

Addressing underlying psychological issues is an integral part of eating disorder treatment, but it is not the main goal as specified in the question. Psychological issues like distorted body image, low self-esteem, and anxiety play a significant role in perpetuating eating disorders. Therapeutic interventions and counseling are employed to tackle these underlying issues, but they are typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medical stabilization.

Choice D rationale:

Preventing relapse is an important long-term goal in eating disorder treatment, but it is not the primary focus when considering the immediate and acute phase of treatment. Relapse prevention strategies become more prominent as patients progress in their recovery journey and work towards maintaining their newfound health and well-being.